A 40-year-old University of Abuja law student, Monday Goodluck, has been remanded in Kuje Correctional Facility by the FCT High Court after being charged with the rape of a 100-level Medicine and Surgery student. The court, presided over by Justice M.S Idris, rejected an oral bail application filed by the defendant’s counsel, Mr. Samson Francis, and ordered that a written bail application be submitted and served to the prosecution. The matter has been adjourned until June 9 for further hearing, pending the outcome of the bail application.
Goodluck was arraigned by the police on a two-count charge under the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, 2015. The prosecution, led by Counsel Alexander Agbo, alleged that the accused sexually assaulted the female student at his residence around 11 p.m. on March 25. According to the prosecution, Goodluck lured the victim by falsely claiming he had access to the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) approval link, using this deception to gain her trust before committing the assault.
The charges include rape, which falls under Section 1(1) and (2) of the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, 2015. The prosecution also accused Goodluck of causing physical injury and inflicting fear by shoving his fingers into the victim’s mouth in an attempt to silence her. This act, they argued, constitutes an offence under Section 2(1) of the same law. The accused, however, pleaded not guilty to both charges during the arraignment.
Justice Idris emphasized the seriousness of the allegations and directed the defence to file a formal written bail application, stressing that oral applications would not be entertained at this stage. The judge also ordered that the application be properly served to the prosecution to allow for a fair and thorough consideration. The court’s decision reflects the growing emphasis on due process and the protection of victims in sexual violence cases across Nigeria.
This case has drawn attention due to the victim’s status as a medical student and the accused’s position as a law student, highlighting the breach of trust and ethical standards within academic institutions. The incident underscores the need for stronger safety measures and awareness on campus, particularly concerning gender-based violence. As the case proceeds, it will be closely watched by legal experts, gender rights advocates, and members of the academic community.
The outcome of the bail application and subsequent trial may set a precedent in how similar cases are handled in Nigerian courts, especially when involving students and allegations of sexual misconduct. The case continues to unfold as the legal process moves forward, with justice and accountability remaining central to public interest.
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