Nigerian Man Jailed 28 Years in UK for Extensive Child Sexual Abuse Over 15 Years

A 61-year-old Nigerian man has been sentenced to 28 years in prison by the Inner London Crown Court following a Metropolitan Police investigation into a decade-long pattern of sexual abuse against two children.

Anthony Adewale Sobogun, residing in Croydon, was found guilty of 17 non- recent sexual abuse charges. The offenses, which occurred during the 1990s and early 2000s, include multiple instances of sexual intercourse with a girl under the age of 13, as well as the rape of a child.

The victims were known to Sobogun. During the investigation, one victim survivor revealed that Sobogun had accompanied her to an abortion clinic after she became pregnant with his child. This statement prompted officers to trace medical records, confirming the abortion, and review counselling notes that detailed the cycle of abuse she endured.

Sobogun was apprehended on July 2, 2025. His conviction followed a comprehensive investigation by officers who prioritized a victim-centred approach, aiming to build trust, gather evidence, and ensure the victims' voices were heard in court.

Detective Constable Charlotte Lockyer, who led the investigation, stated that the bravery of the victims was instrumental in bringing Sobogun to justice. She emphasized that their courage in cooperating with officers led to the imprisonment of a dangerous individual and prevented further harm to society. Lockyer also noted that the outcome demonstrates that justice can be secured regardless of when the abuse took place.

The victims shared a statement highlighting the distressing nature of the revelations and the prevalence of such abuse within communities, often concealed by family, fear, silence, or stigma. They stressed that it is never too late to come forward, asserting that victims' voices matter and that they deserve support and protection.

They also pointed out the importance of looking beyond superficial appearances, as individuals can present as trustworthy while causing harm privately. The victims expressed gratitude to the Metropolitan Police, particularly Detective Constable Lockyer, and the Crown Prosecution Service for their diligent handling of the case.

The Metropolitan Police affirmed their commitment to enhancing the experience of victims throughout investigations. The force highlighted its use of specially designed Video Recorded Interview (VRI) suites, which aid in securing evidence through sensitive interviews for both adults and children, thereby strengthening investigations and supporting victims.

Recently, the Met has invested £10 million in upgrading these VRI suites. This initiative aims to improve the quality and integrity of evidence by integrating advanced digital technology with a trauma-informed, victim-centred environment.