Court Acquits UNIBEN Lecturer of Rape Charges

 An Edo State High Court has acquitted Dr. Omowumi Ekundayo Steven, a lecturer at the University of Benin, of all charges related to the alleged rape and sexual assault of a final-year female student. The ruling was delivered by Justice Mary Itsueli on Friday, October 25, 2024.

Dr. Steven, who has been a member of the Department of English and Literature since 2022, faced serious allegations that have now been dismissed due to insufficient evidence presented by the prosecution. In her judgment, Justice Itsueli pointed out critical flaws in the prosecution's case, including a lack of corroborating testimony from five witnesses and the absence of a medical report from the University of Benin Teaching Hospital.

Justice Itsueli emphasized that the prosecution failed to establish key elements necessary for a rape conviction, such as penetration, sexual intercourse, and lack of consent. She further criticized the police for their inadequate investigation prior to charging Dr. Steven.

“The prosecution's case lacks evidence, and in criminal cases, the burden is on the claimant to prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt,” Justice Itsueli stated. “I find no reason to require the defendant to present a defense. Therefore, the case is dismissed due to lack of evidence, and the accused is discharged and acquitted.”

The legal proceedings began when Dr. Steven was accused on October 5, 2021, of assaulting the student in his office. In the wake of the allegations, the university placed him on suspension pending the resolution of the court case. He was arrested, charged with sexual assault, and later granted bail under stringent conditions.