The Police in Lagos on Monday charged a 41-year-old man, Patrick Onyegbule, before the Badagry Chief Magistrates’ Court over alleged defilement of his toddler.

The defendant, whose address is unknown, is standing trial on a two-count charge bordering on defilement and unlawful penetration.

He, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge.

The prosecutor, Insp. Ayodele Adeosun told the court that the defendant committed the offence between August and November 2024 at Shapview Plaza, Alaba International Market in Ojo, Lagos.

He alleged that the defendant had carnal knowledge of his toddler, left under his care.

“The defendant had an issue with his wife, which made the wife pack out of her matrimonial home, leaving her daughter behind.

“It was during her visit that she discovered that her daughter had been defiled,” he said.

The prosecutor said the offence contravenes sections 137 and 261 of the Criminal Code, Law of Lagos State, 2015.

The chief magistrate, Patrick Adekomaiya, granted the defendant N500,000 bail with two sureties in like sum.

He ordered that the sureties must reside within the court’s jurisdiction and be gainfully employed.

Mr Adekomaiya adjourned the case until March 5 for trial.

(NAN)