The Abia State Police Command on Friday confirmed that a suspect accused of raping a nine-year-old child last week is in its custody.

While the suspect remains in police custody, women in Ebem Ohafia three days ago staged a protest to condemn the incident, while the community called for calm as investigations continue.

Confirming the arrest, the state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Maureen Chinaka, said: “The command is aware. The incident scene was visited, and the suspect apprehended. Investigation is ongoing at the SCID and will be charged to court at the conclusion of the investigation.”

Sources said the suspect, identified as Njoku Stephen, who lives in Ebem Ohafia, had previously been suspected by some members of the community of inappropriate conduct involving minors.

A community source said the incident allegedly occurred on Friday. The suspect, who lives in the community with his wife and children, allegedly threatened the child if she told anyone about the incident, but she later informed her parents.

According to the source, the incident occurred when the girl went to the kitchen to drink water, prompting the women of Ebem Ohafia to protest and demand justice.

Meanwhile, the Ebem Ohafia Development Union has strongly condemned the alleged sexual abuse of the minor within the community, describing the reported incident as “disturbing, unacceptable, and contrary to the values, traditions, and moral standards of the Ebem Ohafia people.”

In a statement issued by the Publicity Secretary of the union, Chief Ifeanyi Okali, EODU reiterated its zero-tolerance stance against all forms of abuse, exploitation, and violations of the rights and dignity of children and vulnerable persons.

According to the union, “the safety, welfare, and protection of children remain a collective responsibility that the community takes seriously,” stressing that any act capable of endangering the wellbeing of minors would always be condemned.

The statement noted that the incident had generated widespread concern and emotional reactions among residents, particularly members of the women’s group, who responded through the traditional protest known as “Ikpa Mbogo,” which involved the dumping of refuse at the residence of the alleged perpetrator as a demonstration of outrage over the alleged act.

While acknowledging the determination of the women to protect children and uphold community values, the union appealed to all residents to “remain peaceful, law-abiding, and committed to due process.”

EODU disclosed that the matter is currently under investigation by the relevant law enforcement agencies and expressed confidence in the ability of the authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure that justice is served.

The union also confirmed that the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) has become involved in the matter, a development it said further highlights the seriousness of the case and the commitment of stakeholders to ensuring fairness and adherence to due process.

The community leadership therefore urged residents to “avoid spreading unverified information or making statements capable of prejudicing ongoing investigations,” emphasizing that justice is best achieved through lawful, transparent, and impartial processes.

Reaffirming its commitment to the protection of children and the preservation of peace and order within the community, EODU stated that anyone found guilty of acts that threaten the safety and welfare of children must be held accountable in accordance with the law.

The union assured residents that it would continue to monitor developments and cooperate with relevant authorities to ensure justice and safeguard vulnerable members of society.

The statement concluded with a call for calm among residents while the legal process takes its course.

Further information indicates that the child was medically examined at Ohafia General Hospital, and findings were documented as part of the ongoing investigation. The matter has also been reported to the Office of the Wife of the Governor of Abia State. (Text, excluding headline: The PUNCH)

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