By: Ade Joshua

The Edo State authorities, acting under the provisions of the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Law (VAPPL), 2021 (as amended), have declared Miss Toba Joyce wanted in connection with allegations of incest and sexual misconduct. The alleged incident occurred on August 22, 2023, during the burial rites of her late father, a respected traditional priest in the community of Igue-Patrick, Orhionmwon Local Government Area, Edo State.
According to the Edo State Police Authority, the action is based on Section 16 of the VAPPL, which criminalizes incestuous conduct and prescribes legal penalties regardless of cultural, traditional, or religious justification. Where a person engages in any act of sexual activity with a relative by blood or affinity, it shall be considered incest, and the person shall be liable to conviction and punishment under the law. VAPPL, Edo State, 2021 (as amended), Section 16
Eyewitness accounts allege that Miss Joyce led her younger brother to a secluded area near a sacred shrine in the bush, where they were reportedly discovered engaging in a prohibited act. The event, considered both a serious cultural taboo and a criminal offense, sparked widespread outrage. The situation quickly escalated into violence, resulting in the mob killing of her brother. Miss Joyce escaped and has remained in hiding ever since.
Traditional authorities in Igue-Patrick have called for Miss Joyce to be surrendered to face customary punishment. However, legal experts and human rights organizations have expressed grave concern for her personal safety, warning that she is at high risk of extrajudicial harm if apprehended outside of lawful channels.
The police have reaffirmed that mob justice, as seen in the killing of Miss Joyce’s brother, is a criminal act under Sections 27 and 30 of the VAPPL, which prohibit assault, group violence, and unlawful homicide, regardless of motive or cultural practice.
According to the Police authority, Miss Joyce’s continued evasion of law enforcement not only hampers the ongoing investigation but also significantly increases the risk of further violence, especially from individuals seeking to enforce traditional justice outside the legal system.
Members of the community are urged to uphold the rule of law and report any relevant information to the appropriate authorities.