Ondo Police Arrest Suspect Over Alleged Defilement of Minor in Owo

The Ondo State Police Command says it has arrested a 23-year-old man, Emmanuel Usman, over the alleged defilement of a 14-year-old girl in Ijebu-Owo, Owo Local Government Area of the state. The command said the case is being handled by its Gender-Based Violence Unit. 

Police said the incident was reported on March 29, 2026, by the teenage victim, whose identity has been withheld. According to the police account, the girl alleged that the suspect dragged her into his employer’s office along Ijebu-Owo and had unlawful carnal knowledge of her without her consent. The command also said the victim alleged that she was threatened not to speak about the incident. 

The police said operatives moved swiftly after receiving the report and arrested the suspect, who is now in custody and assisting investigators with statements. The victim was also taken to the General Hospital, Owo, where she received medical care, while additional support is being considered as the investigation continues. 

The Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, Adebowale Lawal, said the case would be handled with diligence, sensitivity and urgency to ensure justice is served. The command reiterated its commitment to combating sexual and gender-based violence and said the suspect would be charged to court after investigations are concluded.