Man Re-Arrested for Raping Woman Shortly After Completing Jail Term

A repeat offender has been re-arrested for raping a woman shortly after serving a previous sentence for a similar crime, sparking outrage over the justice system’s failure to rehabilitate.

A 55-year-old ex-convict, Ayodele Ijilakinro, has been arrested for allegedly raping another woman, just months after completing a three-year prison sentence for a similar offense. Ijilakinro was released from the Olokuta Correctional Centre in February 2024 after serving time for sexually assaulting his neighbor in 2021 following a business transaction.

The suspect was paraded alongside 23 others by the Ondo State Security Network, also known as Amotekun Corps, at its headquarters in Akure. His arrest has reignited calls for stricter measures to address sexual violence in the state.

Ijilakinro’s Confession

During interrogation, Ijilakinro admitted to sexually assaulting multiple women but claimed that some of the encounters were consensual. He stated that he often lured women with money and took them to hotels, where they would eat, drink, and engage in sexual activities.

“I have raped three ladies. I gave some of them money. I took some of the women to hotels where we would eat, drink, and have sex,” he confessed. However, he insisted that three out of the six women who testified against him were not among those he allegedly forced.

Amotekun’s Efforts to Maintain Security

Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, Commander of the Ondo Amotekun Corps, disclosed that the 24 suspects paraded were involved in various criminal activities, including kidnapping, fraud, and sexual violence. He reassured residents that the state remains peaceful and safe for business and social activities.

Among the suspects were three alleged kidnappers—Akpan, Alimi, and Emmanuel—arrested in Akure, Emure, and Ipeme-Owo. Another suspect, Adu Ojo, was apprehended for specializing in ATM fraud. Ojo reportedly manipulated ATM machines to trap victims’ cards, retrieved them using a secret code, and stole money from their accounts.

Call for Stricter Measures

Ijilakinro’s repeated offense has raised concerns about the effectiveness of rehabilitation programs within correctional facilities and the need for stricter enforcement of laws to deter sexual violence. The case has also highlighted the importance of community vigilance and the role of security agencies in maintaining public safety.

Commander Adeleye emphasized Amotekun’s commitment to protecting residents and ensuring that criminals face the full wrath of the law. He urged citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies promptly.