A 16-year-old girl from Osogbo, Osun State, has accused her stepfather, Pastor Femi, of impregnating her at the age of 13. She reported the incident to the World Institute for Peace (WIP), a Non-Governmental Organisation, seeking alternative dispute resolution. In an affidavit, the victim alleged that Femi had been abusing her since she was 12 and impregnated her at 13. He then took her to a hospital for an abortion, instructing her to lie about the father of the child.
During a meeting with WIP officials, the victim explained that she didn’t want to take legal action because of her younger siblings, who are Femi’s children. Femi admitted to the crime, claiming God told him to sleep with her and abort the pregnancy. “It is true I slept with her…I’m a pastor and it was God who told me to sleep with her. God also told me to abort the pregnancy,” he said.
The victim’s mother swore an affidavit on her behalf, stating that the family had agreed to settle the dispute through alternative dispute resolution and was no longer pursuing legal action. WIP Chairman Lamina Omotoyosi expressed concern about increasing cases of incest in the state, urging parents to ensure their children’s safety, especially from close family members.
Omotoyosi emphasized the importance of protecting children from abuse and exploitation, even within their own families. The case highlights the need for vigilance and support for victims of sexual abuse and exploitation.
