•Anguished mother cries for justice

The mother of an eight-year-old girl allegedly defiled by an operative of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Bauchi State has called for justice, expressing deep concern over delays in prosecuting the suspect.

The mother’s appeal was made public through her legal counsel, Barrister Alkasim Mohammed, a human rights lawyer representing the African Child Development and Human Right Protection.

According to the counsel, the incident occurred when the victim was sent to buy a sachet of water at the residence of the suspect, identified as 45-year-old Muhammad Mustapha Makama, a neighbour to the victim’s family.

He said the suspect allegedly lured and had carnal knowledge of the minor.

The case was promptly reported by the victim’s mother, Salamatu Musa, at the E Division of the Bauchi State Police Command on July 5, 2026.

Following the report, the police arrested Makama, and he has reportedly remained in police custody for almost three weeks without being charged in court.

Frustrated by the prolonged detention without trial, the human rights organisation petitioned the Bauchi State Commissioner of Police.

While commending the police for arresting a security personnel, Barrister Alkasim raised alarm over alleged behind-the-scenes moves by certain figures to secure the suspect’s release.

The lawyer noted that the Bauchi State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice had already issued legal advice and an opinion on July 23, 2023, favouring the prosecution of the suspect based on available evidence, facts, and medical reports.

When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Nafiu Habib, confirmed the arrest of the suspect and assured the public that he would soon be charged in court. (Daily Trust, but headline reworked)