Man Dies After 40 Lashes for Alleged Rape in Bayelsa

Samuel Oyadongha, a 47-year-old man, reportedly collapsed and died after receiving 40 lashes as punishment for the alleged rape of a 10-year-old girl in the Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. The incident occurred on a Wednesday when the victim was ambushed while walking home from her aunt's farm.

According to local sources, the community adhered to a traditional punishment of 120 lashes for such offenses, but Oyadongha was only given 40 lashes before collapsing. Tensions escalated as community members rejected a financial offer to spare him from the punishment.

Following his death, which was confirmed at a local hospital, chaos ensued, prompting the deployment of soldiers to restore order. The Southern Ijaw Council, represented by Mr.

Ayebaitari Easterdai, condemned the mob action and emphasized that the government does not condone such actions. Four individuals have been arrested in connection with Oyadongha's death, and the Bayelsa State Police Command is conducting a criminal investigation.