February 26, 2026 l By Dalena Reporters
Ogun State, Nigeria — The Ogun State Police Command has released the young woman widely referred to in media and social platforms as “Mirabel” to the care of the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, while continuing investigations into her reported assault case, Punch Nigeria reports.
The development comes amid heightened national outrage over the alleged rape incident, which first gained public attention after activists shared distressing accounts and called for swift action by law enforcement and relevant state agencies.
According to official statements, Mirabel was handed over on Wednesday, February 26, 2026, to the care of government welfare officers from the Ogun State Ministry of Women Affairs, where she will receive medical, psychological, and social support as the case continues through police channels.
Authorities say the transfer is intended to place her in a protective environment where she can access ongoing counselling and rehabilitation services while investigators work to build the case. Officials emphasised that she remains a key witness and that her cooperation is crucial to securing justice.
The Ogun State Police Command confirmed that its Criminal Investigation Department (CID) is actively probing the matter, including taking statements from Mirabel and other relevant witnesses. The force urged the public to allow the legal process to unfold without interference, saying the investigation remains at a “sensitive stage.”
“We are following leads and conducting interviews. Relevant forensic examinations and other investigative processes are ongoing. We appeal to the public to be patient as due process is followed,” a police spokesperson said.
The alleged case attracted widespread attention after posts circulated on social media detailing the rape accusation. Supporters and rights advocates took to digital platforms to amplify Mirabel’s story, prompting calls for justice and scrutiny of how assault reports are handled by authorities across Nigeria.
Several women’s rights organisations condemned the violence and urged stronger protections for survivors of sexual assault nationwide, stressing the need for trauma-informed support and accountability for perpetrators when evidence supports charges.
By transferring Mirabel to the Ministry of Women Affairs, the Ogun State Government signaled its intent to ensure the young woman’s welfare beyond the immediate law enforcement context. Officials from the ministry have pledged to provide comprehensive support, including counselling, medical care, and reintegration services where necessary.
The ministry’s involvement also underscores broader efforts to coordinate care for survivors of gender-based violence through state welfare mechanisms.
Legal and Policy Experts Weigh In
Legal observers say the case reflects ongoing challenges in Nigeria’s response to sexual violence, including delays in investigation, inadequate victim support structures, and slow judicial processes. They have called for fast-tracked legal procedures in cases involving sexual violence while maintaining standards of fairness and thorough investigation.
Advocates are also urging more robust education on reporting mechanisms and protections for survivors, so that victims feel empowered to come forward without fear of stigma or retaliation.
Next Steps in the Investigation
Security authorities have not disclosed whether any arrests have been made in connection with the alleged rape. The police say they will review all statements and forensic evidence before determining appropriate charges.
Meanwhile, human rights groups continue to monitor developments closely and have pledged to support Mirabel and other survivors of sexual violence through legal advocacy and public awareness campaigns.