The Lagos state government has remanded a 44-year-old Railway civil servant, Festus Nwaegela, before a Lagos High Court sitting in Ikeja over an alleged rape of a seven-year-old girl.

Nwaegela was arraigned before Justice Oyindamola Ogala, where he faced a two-count charge bordering on defilement and sexual assault.

Count 1: That you Festus Nwaegela on  December 18, 2023 at  Ebute Metta, Lagos did defile a seven- year- old minor By having unlawful sexual intercourse with her. 

This offence is contrary to Section 137 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.

Count 2: That you Festus Nwaegela on December 18 did sexually assaulted a Seven-year- old minor by penetrating her anus.

This offence is contrary to Section 261 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State 2015.

However, Nwaegela pleaded not guilty to the charges when it was read to him. 

In view of his plea the lead state prosecutor, Mr. O. A. Azeez, prayed for a trial date.

Justice Ogala ordered that the defendant be remanded in the correctional facility pending the trial.