Man Arraigned for Starving, Assaulting 11-Year-Old Stepson

Aramide Tito, a 45-year-old man, was arraigned before the Badagry Chief Magistrates’ Court on Monday for allegedly starving and assaulting his 11-year-old stepson.

The defendant was charged with indecent treatment, assault, and attempted murder, but pleaded not guilty to the charges.

According to the prosecutor, ASP Clément Okuoimose, “The defendant unlawfully beat up and starved his stepson for three days. He poured hot water on him while he was sleeping and attempted to murder the boy while he was sleeping.” Okuoimose told the court that the defendant committed the offence on August 17 at Oke Ogbe Area, Atura, Badagry, Lagos.

The prosecutor stated that the offence contravenes the provisions of Sections 135, 245, and 230 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State, 2015. Chief Magistrate A.J. Aina admitted the defendant to bail of N100,000 with two sureties in like sum, requiring each surety to be gainfully employed.

Aina said, “The sureties must be responsible citizens who can produce the defendant whenever he is needed in court.”

The case was adjourned until September 25 for a hearing. The chief magistrate warned the defendant, “You must ensure you appear in court on the adjourned date, or a warrant will be issued for your arrest.”