LAGOS, Nigeria — Lucy Samuel, 29, appeared before a Yaba Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, May 15, 2014, accused of assaulting her 13-year-old stepdaughter with a heated knife.
Samuel pleaded not guilty to two counts of conspiracy and assault.
The proceedings were reported by the News Agency of Nigeria.
Police prosecutor Gbemileke Agoi told the court that Samuel and her husband allegedly conspired to assault the girl at their home in Ejigbo on April 6.
Agoi alleged that Samuel used the heated knife to injure the child’s genital area and buttocks after the girl disclosed that her father had been forcing her to have sex with him when Samuel was absent.
The court heard that the case came to light after the girl’s teacher, Abimbola Owolabi, noticed that she was repeatedly uncomfortable in class and discovered her injuries.
Agoi said the alleged offences violated Sections 243 and 409 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011.
Chief Magistrate Kikelomo Ayeye granted Samuel bail of ₦100,000 with two sureties in the same amount.
The case was adjourned until June 13, 2014, for trial.
