The Osun State Police Command has arrested a 45-year-old artisan, identified as Mukaila Adeyemo, over allegations of sexually abusing a minor in Ikire, Irewole Local Government Area of the state.

The command’s spokesperson, Abiodun Ojelabi, said the suspect was accused of assaulting the child on two separate occasions. The allegations were contained in a statement issued by the police on Wednesday, October 14, 2026.

According to the police account, the first incident allegedly occurred in September after the suspect invited the child to his residence under the pretext of asking for assistance with some errands. The police said the suspect allegedly assaulted the child after she arrived.

The command further alleged that another incident occurred on October 2, the child’s birthday. According to the statement, the child visited the suspect’s workshop in the Ilupeju area of Ikire after receiving money from him and taking biscuits to him as a gift. The police alleged that he subsequently took her to a nearby bush and sexually assaulted her.

The police said people in the area became aware of the incident, confronted the situation and apprehended the suspect before handing him over to the authorities. The command did not disclose further details about the child, in order to protect the minor’s identity.

Ojelabi urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant and encouraged residents to report suspicious behaviour and suspected criminal activities to the nearest police station or through established emergency channels.

The case highlights the importance of protecting children and reporting suspected abuse promptly. The allegations against Adeyemo remain subject to investigation and judicial determination. He is presumed innocent unless proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction.