Authorities in Rivers State, Nigeria, have arrested a 30-year-old man suspected of assaulting a 13-year-old girl. The incident, which occurred in an estate located close to a federal government college in Abuloma, Port Harcourt, has sparked outrage in the local community.
Details surrounding the alleged assault are still emerging. However, reports indicate that the suspect, identified only as Jeffrey, lured the victim, the daughter of his landlady, to his tailoring shop under the pretense of showing her clothes. Once inside, he allegedly locked the door, overpowered the girl, and assaulted her.
The victim bravely confided in her mother following the incident. The mother, understandably distraught, immediately reported the crime to the Amadi Police Division. The police swiftly apprehended Jeffrey, and according to a police source, a medical examination confirmed the assault.
“The suspect has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department (SCIID) for further investigation,” said Grace Iringe-Koko, spokesperson for the Rivers State Police Command.
The incident has highlighted the disturbing issue of child sexual abuse in Nigeria. Sadly, cases like this are not uncommon. Child protection organizations have long advocated for stricter legislation and improved enforcement measures to address this pervasive problem.
Here are some resources that can help if you or someone you know has been affected by child sexual abuse:
- The Nigerian Child Rights Information Network (CRIN) – https://home.crin.org/
- The Mirabel Centre – https://www.crisiscenterbham.org/prevention-education/
- The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) – https://naptip.gov.ng/
If you suspect a child is being abused, you can also contact the Nigerian Police Child Protection Unit.
