A developing legal case in Lagos has drawn public attention following the remand of a 31-year-old engineer, Godwin Asekhamen, by an Ikeja Chief Magistrates’ Court over allegations of sexual assault against a 26-year-old woman.
According to earlier reports published in several media outlets, the court ordered that the defendant be remanded at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre pending legal advice from the Lagos State Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP). The prosecution alleged that the incident occurred in May 2025 at a residence in the Lekki axis of Lagos, where the victim had reportedly visited a friend before the alleged assault took place.
However, information now shared with Societal Concerns Magazine by a witness close to the case presents a more detailed and complex account of events, raising questions that investigators and the court will ultimately determine.
Witness Account Raises Additional Allegations
In a testimony provided to Societal Concerns Magazine, the witness alleged that the accused was initially arrested by operatives of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, over separate allegations related to fraud and cyber harassment involving an ex-girlfriend. According to the source, the case was later transferred to the police gender unit for investigation into allegations of assault, rape, and unlawful detention connected to the events of May 1–2, 2025.
The witness claimed that the victim had received an early morning call from a friend identified as Somtochukwu Okonkwo, who allegedly told her she was in distress and asked her to come to Carlton Gate Estate in Lekki.
Upon arrival at the residence located within Carlton Gate Estate along Chevron Drive, the witness alleged that the victim was informed that her friend needed to step out to buy sanitary pads. It was during this period, according to the testimony, that the accused allegedly locked the door, seized the victim’s phone, assaulted her, and repeatedly raped her.
The witness further alleged that the victim was detained in the residence overnight and was only able to leave the following day.
Police Investigation and Legal Process
While these claims are serious, it is important to emphasize that they remain allegations currently under investigation and judicial review. Nigerian law presumes the innocence of the accused until proven guilty by a competent court.
The remand order issued by the magistrate court is part of the legal process that allows the Lagos State Directorate of Public Prosecutions to review the case file and determine whether sufficient evidence exists to proceed with prosecution.
Cases involving sexual violence often require extensive investigation, including medical reports, forensic evidence, witness testimony, and police documentation.
The Broader Conversation
The case has also reignited conversations around sexual violence, victim protection, and the importance of due process within Nigeria’s justice system.
Advocates continue to stress the need for victims to report cases promptly and for law enforcement agencies to handle such matters with sensitivity, professionalism, and fairness.
At the same time, legal experts emphasize that public commentary must be careful not to pre-empt judicial outcomes, as the courts remain the final authority in determining guilt or innocence.
Awaiting the Next Court Date
The case is expected to continue after the legal advice from the DPP is issued. Until then, the defendant remains in custody as ordered by the court.
As the matter unfolds, Societal Concerns Magazine will continue to monitor developments and provide updates based on verified facts and court proceedings.
