The Osun State Police Command has arrested a 45-year-old man, Adeyemo Mukaila, over the alleged rape of a young girl in Ikire, Irewole Local Government Area of the state.

The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, disclosed the arrest in a statement issued on Wednesday on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Zungura.

According to the police, the suspect was a friend of the victim’s grandmother and frequently visited the family’s home.

Police Allege Two Incidents

The command alleged that the first incident occurred in September 2026, when Mukaila asked the girl to retrieve some items from his house.

The police said that when she arrived, the suspect allegedly dragged her into his room and sexually assaulted her.

The statement further alleged that a second incident occurred on October 2, the victim’s birthday.

According to the police account, the girl visited Mukaila’s workshop in the Ilupeju area of Ikire to give him biscuits after he had reportedly given her ₦1,000 as a birthday gift and requested one in return.

The suspect allegedly took her to a nearby bush and sexually assaulted her again.

Members of the Public Apprehend Suspect

The police said the suspect fled into the bush after noticing that people had seen them.

Commuters reportedly stopped the girl and asked what had happened. After hearing her account, they pursued the suspect, apprehended him and handed him over to the police.

The command confirmed that Mukaila had been taken into custody as investigations continued.

Police Urge Public to Protect Children

The police urged parents and members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious behaviour or suspected criminal activities to the nearest police station or through official emergency channels.

The allegations against Mukaila have not been established in court.