A 51-year-old woman, Okoye Oluchi, has been remanded in custody at Kirikiri Correctional Center after allegedly assaulting her 15-year-old housemaid, Miracle Friday, August 9, in the Shasha area of Lagos State.
The disturbing incident reportedly took place on July 15, 2024, at their residence on Olukosi Street.
According to police reports, Okoye allegedly bit the teenager on her shoulder and threatened to kill her with a kitchen knife.
The terrified girl managed to escape and reported the matter to the Ikotu Police Division, which led to Okoye’s arrest.
After being detained and interrogated by the police, Okoye was found culpable and subsequently charged before the Ogba Magistrate Court.
She faces charges under the Child’s Rights Law of Lagos State and the Lagos State Criminal Laws, which carry severe penalties.
The first count accuses Okoye of assaulting the minor by inflicting injuries on her with a human bite, a violation of Section 10(a) of the Child’s Right Law of Lagos State, 2015.
The second count alleges that she threatened the teenager with a kitchen knife, contrary to the Lagos State Criminal Laws, 2015.
During the court hearing, Okoye pleaded not guilty to the charges. The prosecutor, Inspector John Iberedem, requested a hearing date to present evidence that supports the accusations against her.
Presiding Magistrate, Mrs. E. Kubenije, granted Okoye bail on the condition that she provides two sureties who must demonstrate evidence of a stable means of livelihood and tax payment. However, until these conditions are met, she will remain in custody.
The case has been adjourned until August 28, 2024, for further mention.
