How 78-year-old woman was raped to death in Lagos – Police

In the ongoing trial at the Ikeja Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Court, Investigative Police Officer (IPO) ASP Babatunde Ashifat provided critical testimony regarding the alleged rape leading to the tragic death of a 78-year-old woman, Jelili Lawal.

Ashifat, testifying under the guidance of Lagos State counsel Ms. Bukola Okeowo, disclosed that he began investigating the case on January 2, 2019. According to his account, two witnesses observed Lawal sexually assaulting the elderly woman and promptly alerted a police officer who was on night patrol.

The sequence of events began on January 1, 2019, at Maryland Bus Stop in Lagos State. The elderly woman had approached Lawal, seeking assistance in locating her residence. Lawal, apparently offering to help, provided her with N500 and they boarded the same bus. However, when they reached a particular bus stop, Lawal directed the elderly woman to disembark. He then led her to an unfinished building in a secluded area, where he subjected her to a harrowing assault and rape during the night.

Throughout the ordeal, the victim cried out for help, catching the attention of two compassionate women who were nearby. These individuals intervened and promptly alerted the patrolling police officer to the situation.

Ashifat went on to reveal that the elderly woman, who had hearing difficulties, had been reported missing by her family. She had suffered severe injuries as a result of the sexual assault and tragically succumbed to excessive bleeding.

“The victim was bleeding from her anus and vagina,” Ashifat stated, “and I gave a medical form for her to be taken to the Mirabel Medical Centre. The medical doctor, who examined her, confirmed that there was a forceful penetration into her vagina. I was later told that the victim died due to the bleeding.”

Additionally, Ashifat conducted an on-site inspection of the crime scene, a desolate and overgrown area.

The case has been adjourned until October 27 for the continuation of the trial, presided over by Justice Rahman Oshodi.