An Ekiti State Chief Magistrate Court in Ado Ekiti has sentenced a 33-year-old woman, Moradeke Adeoti, to three years imprisonment for child abuse and violating the state’s directive on child hawking. The court’s judgment serves as a stern reminder of the state’s commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of children.
According to the charge sheet, Adeoti was found guilty of unlawfully engaging her 11-year-old cousin, Oyindamola Adeoti, in hawking goods on the streets and highways. The offense was committed on November 22, 2024, in Ado Ekiti, contrary to Section 30(2) of the Child’s Right Law of Ekiti State 2019. The court heard that Adeoti had been treating the victim like a slave, forcing her to hawk pepper, palm wine, and other goods on the streets, especially during school hours.
The defendant’s landlady, Bosede Oso, testified that she and other neighbors had warned Adeoti several times about her treatment of the victim, but she refused to change. The witness stated that Adeoti’s actions were inhumane and that the victim was subjected to hard labor, while Adeoti’s own children were enrolled in school. The landlady also revealed that a kind-hearted individual had offered to enroll the victim in school, but Adeoti rejected the offer.
Tragically, the victim’s situation took a turn for the worse when she was involved in a motorcycle accident and was hospitalized. The incident prompted the landlady to report the matter to the police, leading to Adeoti’s arrest and subsequent trial.
In her defense, Adeoti claimed ignorance of the government’s directive and existing laws on child abuse and hawking. However, Magistrate Olatomiwa Daramola found her guilty as charged, saying that the prosecution had established the offense beyond a reasonable doubt. The Magistrate noted that Adeoti’s actions were a clear breach of the Child’s Right Law and that she had shown no remorse for her actions.
The Sentence
The Magistrate sentenced Adeoti to three years imprisonment with hard labor or an option of N20,000 fine in lieu of imprisonment. The sentence serves as a deterrent to others who may be tempted to engage in similar acts of child abuse and exploitation. The court’s judgment is a testament to the state’s commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of children and ensuring that those who perpetrate abuse are held accountable.
Key Highlights
– Offense:Child abuse and violating Ekiti State Government’s directive on child hawking
– Sentence: Three years imprisonment with hard labor or N20,000 fine
– Victim:11-year-old girl, Oyindamola Adeoti, who was forced to hawk goods on the streets
– Law: Section 30(2) of the Child’s Right Law of Ekiti State 2019
The judgment is a welcome development, and it is hoped that it will serve as a warning to those who engage in child abuse and exploitation. The state’s commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of children is evident in the court’s judgment, and it is expected that the sentence will deter others from committing similar offenses.
