The Edo State Government has rearrested the mother and stepfather of an 11-year-old girl allegedly abused in Benin City, and they will now face prosecution following renewed investigations into the case. The announcement was made by the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Eugenia Abdallah, who affirmed the ministry's commitment to ensuring justice for the child.
Why the suspects were initially released
According to Abdallah, the suspects were initially released from police custody because there was no official record stating why they had been brought to the station. She explained that the lack of documentation led to their release, but they have since been rearrested and will be prosecuted. Abdallah stated, "The suspects were released because nobody recorded why they were brought to the station. However, they have been rearrested, and the ministry will prosecute both the mother and stepfather. We are determined to ensure that justice is served."
Protective care for the victim
The commissioner disclosed that the victim has been placed under protective care, where she is receiving medical treatment, psychosocial support, temporary shelter, and other assistance to aid her recovery. The ministry will continue monitoring the child's welfare while investigations proceed, and all necessary steps will be taken to support her rehabilitation.
How the case came to light
Lucky Orukpe, President of the Traders Welfare Union of Nigeria, said he reported the alleged abuse to the police after the matter was brought to his attention. He recounted that he took the child and her mother to the police station before contacting the Edo State Ministry of Women Affairs, which later assumed responsibility for the case. Orukpe noted that the suspects were initially released from custody, after which the child's mother reportedly moved from her residence, making it difficult to monitor the case. However, with his assistance, the police traced and rearrested the suspects, allowing investigations to continue.
Viral video and public outcry
The case drew public attention after a viral video recorded by Orukpe showed the child with injuries allegedly caused by physical abuse. In the video, the child's mother, identified as Beauty, allegedly admitted burning part of the girl's lower body with melted nylon as punishment for what she described as misconduct. Following the incident, the Ministry of Women Affairs rescued the child and placed her under protective care while investigations commenced.
Allegations of repeated abuse
Although the mother reportedly claimed she carried out the act while her husband was away, some residents alleged that the stepfather restrained the child during the incident. Authorities also reportedly found older injury marks on different parts of the girl's body, raising concerns that the alleged abuse may have occurred repeatedly over a prolonged period. The allegations remain under investigation as government officials and law enforcement agencies continue efforts to establish the facts and ensure justice for the victim.
