A Lagos Chief Magistrate’s Court has cleared Bitrus Daniyan, 53, of charges for allegedly assaulting his seven-year-old daughter. The Lagos Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) found insufficient evidence to proceed with the case.
Case Overview:
Daniyan was arrested in June 2024 after neighbors claimed he assaulted his daughter at their Ajah home. The charge was based on Section 261 of the Lagos Criminal Law, which carries a life sentence.
The DPP reviewed the evidence and advised against prosecution. The court then discharged Daniyan.
Legal Actions:
After his discharge, Daniyan filed a motion to dismiss a guardianship suit by his late wife’s sisters, Chidinma and Chinyere Akahara, who sought custody of his daughter. Daniyan accused them of fabricating the assault claims to access a trust fund worth over N7 million.
He also alleged the sisters took important documents while he was in custody. Investigations linked them to a Dr. ABC Orjiako, who helped secure their bail.
Health and Custody Dispute:
Daniyan referenced a November 2023 pediatric visit, which showed no signs of abuse. He requested full custody, accusing the sisters of malicious intent.
The court adjourned the case to May 8, 2025, to address all pending motions.
The assault charges were dropped, but the custody battle continues. The court will decide on the guardianship issue in the coming months.
