A Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Court in Awka, Anambra State, has handed a 12-year prison sentence to 34-year-old schoolteacher Pascal Ofomata for defiling his 11-year-old male JSS 1 student.
The case was presided over by Justice Peace Otti, who found Ofomata guilty of charges including rape and physical assault, offences punishable under Sections 3(1) and 4(1) of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Law, as well as sexual abuse under Section 35(2) of the Anambra State Child’s Right Law.
Ofomata, who taught at St Christopher’s Junior Seminary, 3-3 Onitsha, initially pleaded not guilty to the three-count charge.
During the proceedings, the court reviewed substantial evidence presented by the prosecution, including statements from the police investigator and medical expert who examined the victim. While the defendant denied penetration, he acknowledged engaging in acts that constituted sexual abuse in his statement to the police.
Following a thorough evaluation, Justice Otti found him guilty and sentenced him to 12 years in prison. The court also ruled that Ofomata is permanently barred from employment in any institution that involves minors—covering primary, secondary, and tertiary educational settings.
Justice Otti praised the efforts of the prosecution, stating, “The lead Prosecutor’s final address was compelling and comprehensive. It was rare for cases of sexual offences against boys to receive a conclusive end and justice served to offenders.”
In response to the verdict, the Anambra State Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, Ify Obinabo, applauded the outcome, saying, “The Anambra State justice system is one that delivers nothing short of justice. This case is a rare push for justice for the boy-child and awareness that boys too can be victims of sexual violence.”
