Lagos Court Sentenced Security Guard To Life Imprisonment For Raping A Nurse

A security guard employed at Greensprings School in Lagos has been sentenced to life in prison after being convicted of raping a nurse in the school's clinic.

A Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Court in Ikeja, Lagos State, has sentenced Emmanuel Buchi, a security guard, to life imprisonment for the rape of a 37-year-old nurse at Greensprings School in Awoyaya, Ibeju-Lekki. 

Justice Rahman Oshodi delivered the judgment on Wednesday, finding Buchi guilty of both rape and assault causing harm, stating that the Lagos State Government had proven its case beyond a reasonable doubt. 

The incident occurred on November 27, 2021, in the school clinic during a night shift, where both Buchi and the victim were employed, according to the News Agency of Nigeria. 

In his ruling, Justice Oshodi labeled Buchi a 'pathological liar,' noting that his defense fell apart under examination. 

The judge remarked that Buchi displayed no remorse during the trial, maintaining that the victim had consented to the sexual act, despite clear evidence to the contrary. 

The judge emphasized that a life sentence for rape is mandatory under the law and reflects society's rejection of such a grave offense. 

He pointed out the particularly troubling nature of the case, given that the convict was supposed to safeguard lives and property at the school. 

"You were hired as a security guard at Greensprings School, Awoyaya, with the responsibility to protect lives and property. Instead of fulfilling that duty, you became the assailant of the victim by leaving your post on the night of November 27, 2021. 

You unlawfully entered the school clinic and raped her while she was alone on duty that night," the judge stated. 

Justice Oshodi noted that evidence indicated Buchi used force and violence during the assault, including pressing the victim's hands down, restraining her legs, and stomping on her legs with his security boots. 

Medical evidence presented in court showed bruising on the victim's left eye and injuries to her vagina, supporting her account of the assault. 

The court also considered Buchi's statement to the police, where he acknowledged that the victim had told him, "Leave me now," and under cross-examination, he admitted to interpreting her refusal as consent. 

Justice Oshodi rejected Buchi's assertion that the victim was his girlfriend, calling it a fabricated defense that contradicted his own police statement. 

"Throughout this trial, you have demonstrated no comprehension of the severity of your actions or the damage you have inflicted. 

Beyond the physical injuries, the victim will bear the psychological scars of this violation," the court remarked. 

Buchi was sentenced to life imprisonment for rape and an additional three years for assault causing harm, with both sentences to run concurrently. 

His name will also be added to the Lagos State Sexual Offences Register. "Therefore, you are sentenced to life imprisonment for rape and three years for assault causing harm," the judge concluded. 

The prosecution, led by Babajide Boye, presented three witnesses and submitted various exhibits, while Buchi was the only witness for the defense. 

The charges violated Sections 173 and 258 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.