A 27-year-old man, Michael Ubani, who allegedly raped and stole from a 19-year-old physically challenged girl, was on Thursday remanded in the Kirikiri Prison, Lagos State.
The Magistrate, Mr. M. A. Etti, who gave the ruling at an Apapa Magistrates’ Court, said the accused should remain in custody pending when his bail application would be considered.
The accused, who resides at Olodi Apapa area of Apapa, Lagos, pleaded not guilty to a three-count of rape, assault, and stealing.
Earlier, the prosecutor, Sgt. Olusegun Kokoye, told the court that the accused committed the offences on June 5 at his residence. Kokoye alleged that the complainant was sleeping in her apartment when Ubani forcefully entered her room and raped her.
“The complainant said that the accused dragged her to the floor and forcefully had carnal knowledge of her.
“She said that the accused also stole the N3,000 she kept in her wardrobe.
” The complainant said Ubani was apprehended by their neighbour who heard her screaming for help.
“The complainant reported the case to the police and Ubani was arrested and taken to the police station for further questioning,” he said.
The prosecutor said the offences contravened Sections 172, 287 and 260 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Section 260 prescribes a 14 -year jail term upon conviction for rape.
The case was adjourned till June 27, for a mention.
NAN