Juliet Oladele, Reporting
A simmering dispute between two neighbours over a husband boiled over in shocking fashion last month, leaving one woman nursing severe burns after she was allegedly doused with scalding water.
The incident unfolded on the evening of 27th March at No. 5, Adeljabi Street, Man-Nia, Ipaja, where both families reside. Mrs. Omolade Basirat, 32, is accused of launching the brutal attack on her neighbour, Mrs. Kafayat Moshood, following a heated public altercation.
According to police reports filed at the Ipaja Division, the two married women became embroiled in a vicious row regarding one of their husbands. What began as a verbal disagreement quickly escalated into a torrent of insults and then a full-blown physical brawl.
Prosecutors allege that during the melee, Basirat retrieved boiling water from her stove and deliberately threw it over her rival. The victim suffered grievous burns to her back and several other parts of her body. She was subsequently rushed to an undisclosed hospital, where she remains in receiving treatment.
The victim’s family reported the matter to the authorities, leading to Basirat’s arrest and detention for questioning. Following a full investigation, police charged her before the Ejigbo Magistrate’s Court.
The charge sheet states Basirat did “unlawfully cause grievous harm” by pouring hot water on her neighbour, an offence contrary to Section 245 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015. A second charge was filed for conduct likely to cause a breach of the peace under Section 168(d) of the same law.
Basirat pleaded not guilty to both counts. The prosecutor, Supol Benedict Aigbokhan, requested a hearing date to prove the alleged offence, which was granted.
Presiding Magistrate Mrs. A.K. Dosumu granted the defendant bail in the sum of N2 million, with two sureties in like amount. The sureties must provide evidence of a means of livelihood and tax payment, with addresses subject to court verification.
Basirat has been remanded in custody at the Kirikiri Town correctional centre, Lagos, until she is able to perfect her bail conditions. The case is adjourned until 29th April for further mention.
