The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) says the case against X-user, Surajudeen Oyetunji Oyewale ka Suraj, was dropped as the alleged survivor denied all allegations of domestic violence against her and requested for the case to be withdrawn.

Suraj was dragged before the court on a two-count charge filed against him by the state government after he came out to publicly admit that he beat up his wife after she refused to let him exercise his "Islamic right to pick a second wife". He was arraigned in court on Thursday, July 4 on two counts, Assault against his spouse and Conduct Likely to Cause Breach of Peace, but the case was struck out by the court.

In a statement released today July 5, DSVA stated that the matter was dismissed after the victim denied the allegations of domestic violence.

Read the statement below…

‘’In response to the recent case involving Surajudeen Oyetunji Oyewale, who publicly admitted to committing domestic violence, addressing this matter was crucial due to public interest. This case was unique as it stemmed not from external allegations but from Mr. Oyewale’s own admission on social media via his X Account (@SirJarus).

The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency, in line with its statutory mandate, acted on Mr. Oyewale’s admission and referred the case to the Commissioner of Police (Gender Desk Department), for investigation and the case was subsequently charged to Court (Court 5, Ogba Magistrate Court).

Mr. Oyewale was charged on two counts. Count l: Assault against his spouse.

Count ll: Conduct Likely to Cause Breach of Peace.

During court proceedings, his spouse, the alleged survivor denied all allegations of domestic violence against her and requested for the case to be withdrawn against her husband.

In the ruling, Magistrate Owolabi ruled, “I shall strike out these charges on the following conditions:”

•The defendant shall put down his X(Twitter) blog for one month.

•The defendant shall attend counseling sessions at the Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency, and the agency will provide a report to the court.

The matter was adjourned to 30th of September 2024 for compliance with the agency’s report.

We extend our appreciation to the Lagos State Police Command for their swift response as well as to everyone that brought this case to our attention.

We use this medium to reiterate the Lagos State Government’s commitment to providing support and resources to survivors, ensuring their voices are heard, and advocating for justice in all cases of domestic and sexual violence.

If you or anyone you know is experiencing domestic or sexual violence, please do not hesitate to reach out to us on our toll-free line at 08000-333-333/ 0813-796-0048.

We are here to help.

Adejoke Ladenegan-Oginni

Head Public Affairs Unit

Lagos DSVA

July 4th, 2024.''