Anambra Commissioner for Women Affairs meets with teenager allegedly assaulted in Nawfia community.
The Anambra State Government has pledged to ensure justice for a 16-year-old girl allegedly assaulted by eight men, including her guardian, in Nawfia community, Njikoka Local Government Area.
Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Esther Onyekesi, made the commitment when the teenager was brought to her office in Awka on Thursday.
The commissioner condemned the alleged abuse and assured that all those involved would face prosecution.
Onyekesi became emotional during the meeting with the victim and expressed concern over the trauma the teenager reportedly suffered from individuals expected to protect her.
A medical report presented to the ministry confirmed that the teenager is reportedly two months pregnant following the alleged repeated assaults.
The case was brought to the attention of the ministry by a Catholic priest in Nawfia who reportedly intervened after learning about the incident.
According to the commissioner, the state government strongly condemns all forms of sexual violence and remains committed to protecting vulnerable children and women.
She urged men to protect women and girls instead of exploiting their vulnerability and assured the victim that the ministry would closely monitor the case to ensure justice is achieved.
Narrating her experience, the teenager alleged that her guardian repeatedly assaulted her and that other men later joined in the abuse.
She said a “Good Samaritan” helped her escape from the situation last week, leading to some arrests before she was taken to the commissioner’s office for protection.
The victim also stated that her guardian’s wife, who is reportedly suffering from stroke, was unable to intervene.
According to the teenager, officers at the Nawfia Police Division have arrested two of the eight suspects, while six others remain at large.
The case is currently being handled by the Nawfia Police Division.
The incident has renewed concerns about rising cases of sexual violence and child abuse in parts of the country, with advocates calling for stronger protection mechanisms and speedy prosecution of offenders.
About The Author
