Man, 28, arraigned for alleged rape

A 28-year-old driver, John Godwin, who allegedly raped and assaulted a 20-year-old woman, was on Thursday, arraigned in Lagos.

Godwin, who resides at No. 21, Oluwakemi Street, Ajegunle , Lagos, is facing a two-count -charge of rape and assault at an Ikeja Magistrates’ Court.

The Prosecutor, Insp. Frank Inah, told the court that the accused committed the offences on August 8, at his residence.

Inah explained that the accused assaulted the complainant by beating her, and also had carnal knowledge of her without her consent.

Inah said, “The complainant said that she was at Agbado area of Lagos, when the accused approached her and asked for her telephone number.

“The woman said she hesitated at first, but later gave him her number, after which he invited her to his house.

“The complainant said when she got to the accused’s apartment, he lured her into his room and forcefully had her carnal knowledge without her consent.”

Inah said the offences contravened Sections 171 and 258 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State, 2011.

The accused, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Section 258 prescribes life imprisonment for offenders, if found guilty; section 171 prescribes three-year jail term for assault.

The Magistrate, Mrs M.O Osinbajo, granted the accused bail in the sum of N100,000, with one surety in like sum, and adjourned the case till Sept. 3, for trial. LAW/FOG/EOB/ASH