- Safiu Kehinde
The Lagos State Police Command has denied reports linking it to an alleged plot to release a Lebanese national accused of defiling a minor.
Command spokesperson, SP Abimbola Adebisi, described the reports as inaccurate and misleading in a statement issued on Tuesday in Lagos.
Adebisi said the case was being handled by the Gender Unit of the command with professionalism, diligence, and adherence to international best practices.
She clarified that the investigation did not involve a Lebanese national, but rather a citizen of one of the Southern African countries.
The command, she added, was taking all necessary steps to ensure that justice was served without bias or interference.
“The Gender Unit remains firmly committed to child protection and due process, regardless of nationality or status,” she said.
Adebisi disclosed that both the child and her biological mother had made statements denying any act of molestation or defilement.
She explained that the investigation stemmed from a complaint lodged by the child’s father, who rarely had custody of the child.
“The investigation is being conducted discreetly to prevent any miscarriage of justice, and its outcome will be made public,” she said.
The spokesperson said the Commissioner of Police, Mr Olohundare Jimoh, had ordered a thorough probe into the media allegations.
Jimoh expressed confidence in the Officer-in-Charge of the Gender Unit, ACP Toyin Kazeem, describing her as a seasoned and dedicated officer.
According to him, Kazeem’s leadership had brought honour to the command and ensured justice for many vulnerable persons.
The CP urged the media and the public to maintain confidence in the police’s ability to deliver justice, especially in sensitive cases.
He assured that the findings of the ongoing investigation would be made public upon conclusion.