Several reactions on social media trailed the story of a 24-year-old lady, Olanipekun Irenimofe, who was arrested and put behind bars by the police for visiting a pharmacy to buy a pregnancy test kit and contraceptives.
In an interview, Irenimofe said she was put behind bars for buying a pregnancy test kit and contraceptive from a pharmacy. According to her, the officers asked her why she was already having sex and couldn’t remain a virgin for her husband.
“My name is Olanipekun Oladayo Irenimofe. I am a student of MAPOLY (Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Abeokuta, Ogun State). I recently finished my ND (National Diploma). I am 24 years old. I finished last year but I’m still writing my project in school. I want to be silent on my course of study.
I was arrested by them (police) for buying a pregnancy test kit and contraceptive. After buying the above-mentioned items I wanted to see a customer and a friend of mine; so, I had to pass by the station. That was when a policeman called me and asked about my profession and I answered that I am a student.
He began to check the polythene bag I was carrying and then found the items. He then asked me why I was with the items and I told him they were for me. They then asked me to go behind the counter and later I was put behind bars. They were just shouting why am I having sex; can’t I remain a virgin for my husband?
I didn’t say anything to them because I don’t understand! At (age) 24, is it illegal? Am I an underage person? If not for the Nigerian education system, should I still be in school?
I was traumatised. I was worried because they were threatening me. I became worried when I was asked to go behind bars.
I don’t even know how to put it because it was the first time I would experience something like that.
I’m not claiming any damages. My sister raised the alarm because she was scared. We are not trying to gain anything from this. I’m not supposed to be harassed. I did nothing wrong, so I should not be treated like a criminal. My friends were very supportive, and if not for my sisters and my friends, yesterday (Friday) wouldn’t have been bearable for me.” she added.
Watch video to see the police explanation for arresting her
