Court gavel
In a shocking incident that has rattled the Tozunkanmeh Ajara-Ajamathen community in Badagry, Lagos State, a 28-year-old woman, Chidinma Simeon, was arraigned on Friday before a Badagry Chief Magistrates’ Court for allegedly biting off her neighbour’s lip during a dispute.
The violent altercation, which occurred on September 10, 2025, at approximately 7:30 p.m., has sparked discussions about personal conflicts escalating to grievous harm and the legal consequences of such actions.
The case underscores the serious legal ramifications of assault under Nigerian law, particularly when it results in permanent disfigurement.
Prosecutor ASP Edet Ekpo informed the court that Simeon unlawfully caused severe harm to the complainant, Anu-Oluwapo Sule, by biting off her lip, resulting in permanent disfigurement.
“The defendant’s actions caused significant physical injury to the victim, leaving her permanently scarred,” Ekpo stated.
He noted that the offence violates Section 245 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State, 2015, which addresses assault occasioning grievous bodily harm.
Under this law, such an act is a felony, carrying a potential penalty of up to seven years imprisonment upon conviction, reflecting the severity of causing lasting physical damage.
Simeon, whose residential address was not disclosed, pleaded not guilty to the assault charge.
Chief Magistrate Nurudeen Layeni granted her bail set at N1 million, requiring two sureties in the same amount.
“One of the sureties must be a recognized community leader, and a deposit of N100,000 must be made to the court’s Chief Registrar,” Layeni directed.
The case was adjourned until October 10, 2025, for further mention, allowing time for the prosecution and defense to prepare their arguments.
