A 52-year-old man, Taiwo Olaniyan, has been remanded in prison for allegedly causing the death of his unborn child after physically assaulting his pregnant wife.
The decision came after an arraignment at the Iyaganku Chief Magistrates’ Court in Ibadan, where Chief Magistrate Mrs. Olabisi Ogunkanmi ordered that Olaniyan be held in Agodi Correctional Facility.
The charge against Olaniyan includes assault and causing the death of an unborn child, following a violent attack on his wife, Rukayat Babajide, in May 2018.
The Chief Magistrate did not take Olaniyan’s plea during the hearing, citing a lack of jurisdiction.
Olaniyan’s case will be further discussed on December 12, pending the advice from the Directorate of Public Prosecution (DPP).
A Tragic Assault: Husband’s Violence Leads to Unborn Child’s Death
Prosecutor Cpl. Akeem Akinloye presented the details of the case to the court.
He revealed that the assault occurred in May 2018, when Olaniyan attacked his wife, inflicting injuries on her.
The prosecutor also confirmed that the attack resulted in the death of the unborn child, due to the physical harm caused during the pregnancy.
Akinloye explained that the couple had been married for 14 years and shared two children together.
The charges Olaniyan faces are grave, involving sections of the Criminal Code Laws of Oyo State.
These include Section 316, Section 319, Section 328, and Section 355, each carrying serious punishments.
If convicted, Olaniyan could face life imprisonment or even the death penalty, depending on the severity of the charges.
Serious Consequences for Domestic Violence
Magistrate Ogunkanmi emphasized that the case was one of great seriousness, considering the tragic outcome of the assault.
While the charges remain pending, the gravity of the situation highlights the dangers of domestic violence and its potential to harm not just the victim but also innocent lives.
The case sheds light on the devastating effects that domestic violence can have, particularly when it involves a pregnant woman and her unborn child.
Legal Framework and Punishments for Domestic Violence
The laws under which Olaniyan is charged have specific punishments for such offenses.
Section 355 of the Criminal Code stipulates a penalty of up to three years imprisonment for causing harm.
Section 328 is more severe, offering life imprisonment for those convicted of causing bodily harm in certain circumstances.
Section 319 is the most serious, prescribing the death sentence for those found guilty of causing the death of another person.
Given the nature of the charges, Olaniyan could face significant legal consequences if found guilty.
Public Reactions and Calls for Justice
The case has sparked public outrage, with many calling for justice for Rukayat and her unborn child.
Domestic violence remains a significant issue in many parts of Nigeria, and this case has brought attention to the need for stronger enforcement of laws protecting victims.
Social media has been flooded with calls for swift justice and support for women facing violence in their homes.
Many have expressed concern over the lack of awareness about the consequences of domestic violence, urging citizens to stand up against abuse.
