After three years of legal proceedings and suspension, Dr. Omowumi Labode Steven, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of English and Literature at the University of Benin (UNIBEN), has been acquitted of sexual assault charges by an Edo State High Court in Benin City. The court found that the prosecution failed to substantiate the claims of sexual assault and alleged rape made by a final-year female student. The incident in question was said to have occurred on October 5, 2021.

Following the accusations, Dr. Steven was suspended by the university and faced a formal inquiry. In the ruling, Justice Mary Itsueli highlighted that the prosecution’s evidence lacked corroboration. She specifically noted that the testimony of the prosecution witness, Miss Anita Efosa, was not supported by the accounts of the other five witnesses presented by the prosecution.

Justice Itsueli further stated that even if the victim’s allegations were taken at face value, there was insufficient evidence to prove that sexual intercourse or rape occurred. The judge pointed out significant gaps in the prosecution’s case, particularly the failure to present a medical report from the University Health Centre, which could have supported the claims. Additionally, a report from Vivian Centre, obtained the day after the incident, did not provide scientific evidence of rape.

The judge explained that the prosecution did not establish the essential elements of rape, including penetration, sexual intercourse, and lack of consent. She emphasized that the police investigation corroborated Dr. Steven’s position, revealing no physical evidence such as bruises or torn clothing on the alleged victim.