The Lagos State Police Command has strongly refuted reports alleging an attempt to release a Lebanese national accused of defiling eight children, describing the story as “inaccurate and misleading.”
In a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, the police clarified that the case is under discreet and professional investigation by the Gender Unit, renowned for its handling of sensitive child-related matters.
“The Lagos State Police Command is not involved in any alleged attempt to release a Lebanese accused of defiling eight children. The case is being handled discreetly by specially trained gender case specialists, in line with international best practices,” the statement read.
Contrary to viral reports, the police revealed that the suspect in question is not Lebanese, but a national of a Southern African country. Both the mother and the alleged victim reportedly provided statements affirming that no act of molestation or defilement occurred.
However, the Command stated that the complaint made by the child’s father who rarely has custody is being thoroughly investigated to prevent any miscarriage of justice.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Jimoh, has ordered a discreet review of all allegations raised in the controversial report, assuring the public that “no stone will be left unturned.” The reporter behind the story has also been contacted and briefed on ongoing steps to ensure transparency.
The statement further commended ACP Toyin Kazeem, the Officer-in-Charge of the Gender Unit, who was officially out of the country on assignment when the case was reported. The CP expressed full confidence in her integrity and commitment to justice, noting her exemplary leadership in handling gender-based and child-protection cases.
“The Gender Unit remains firmly committed to child protection and upholding due process, without fear, favour, or sentiment whether the suspect is a foreign national or Nigerian,” the Command assured.
The Lagos Police urged the public and media to exercise restraint and verify facts before publication, pledging to make the investigation’s outcome public once concluded.