A Lagos High Court sitting in Ikeja has ordered the remand of Festus Nwaegela, a Nigerian Railways worker, in the custody of the Nigerian Correctional Services. Nwaegela is facing a two-count charge of defilement and sexual assault involving a seven-year-old girl.

Justice Oyindamola Ogala issued the remand order after Nwaegela’s arraignment. The state counsel, Olugasa Azeez, informed the court that the defendant allegedly had unlawful sexual intercourse with the minor on December 18, 2023. He is also accused of sexually assaulting the same girl by penetrating her anus, an offense contrary to Section 261 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015. The prosecution further stated that the offense is contrary to Section 137 of the same law.

Nwaegela pleaded not guilty to all charges. Following his plea, Azeez requested a trial date and the issuance of witness summons. Justice Ogala remanded Nwaegela pending trial and adjourned the case till November 19, 2025, for hearing.