Overview
An elderly Nigerian man, Idowu Fashola, has recounted a deeply traumatic experience that followed what he described as a false rape accusation, an ordeal that led to his arrest, imprisonment, and a terrifying brush with death while in custody. His story was revealed in a report by Punch on Thursday, January 8, 2026, shedding light on the emotional and physical toll of wrongful accusations and detention.
How the Allegation Began
According to Fashola, the young girl at the centre of the allegation had been raised in his household from a very young age. He explained that his wife brought the girl into their home when she was about three years old, with the intention of caring for her and giving her access to education.The girl lived with Fashola’s family throughout her primary and secondary school years, enjoying the same care and attention given to their own children. After completing her education, she eventually returned to live with her biological parents.Years later, Fashola said his life took a drastic turn when the girl’s relatives arrived at his residence with police officers, accusing him of raping her. He was immediately arrested and detained, a development he said left him shocked and devastated.
Arrest, Detention, and Court Battle
Fashola described his time in detention as grueling and dehumanizing, marked by uncertainty and fear. He was imprisoned while facing legal proceedings that dragged on for a long period. Throughout the trial, he maintained his innocence.After what he described as a thorough and comprehensive court process, the court reportedly found no evidence to support the rape allegation. As a result, he was fully exonerated and released, bringing an end to the legal nightmare that had consumed years of his life.
A Near-Death Experience in Prison
One of the most horrifying moments Fashola recalled was a day in prison when a police officer reportedly went from cell to cell, shooting inmates. According to him, the situation descended into chaos as prisoners were killed in cold blood.He said his life was spared only because a superior officer intervened, ordering the shooter to stop immediately. The surviving inmates were instructed to return to their cells, while the bodies of the deceased prisoners were removed.Fashola believes that intervention was the reason he is alive today.
Final thought
Reflecting on his ordeal, Fashola expressed deep gratitude to God for sparing his life and to those who supported him throughout the legal battle. He described his freedom as nothing short of a miracle and hopes his story will draw attention to the dangers of false accusations and the harsh realities of detention.