A woman in Ugwuoba, Enugu State, has been arrested after she allegedly forced her young niece to eat human faeces, a disturbing incident that has sparked widespread outrage and prompted a police investigation. The case came to light after a video surfaced online showing community women parading the suspect through the streets, condemning the alleged abuse.
Community mobilises against alleged abuse
According to sources in Ugwuoba, a community in Oji River Local Government Area, the child had been living with her aunt and allegedly suffered repeated maltreatment before the situation escalated. Residents said the community was thrown into shock and anger when the news broke. Women mobilised immediately, picked up the suspect, and paraded her to show that such evil would not be tolerated. The police have been alerted and must ensure she faces the full wrath of the law, a local source told SaharaReporters.
Police investigation underway
The police in the local government area have arrested the woman, and the Divisional Police Officer has interviewed family members, including the child's parents, a resident said. Enugu State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Daniel Ndukwe, said he was not aware of the case at the time he was contacted. If confirmed after investigation, legal experts say the suspect could face charges under Nigerian law, including child abuse, assault, and inhuman or degrading treatment. The Child Rights Law in Enugu State also provides protection for children against abuse and neglect.
Social media reactions and calls for justice
The video has generated widespread reactions across social media, with many Nigerians demanding justice for the child. Human rights advocates have called on the Enugu State Ministry of Gender Affairs and relevant child protection agencies to step in, ensure the victim receives medical attention, counselling, and proper care. The case has once again brought attention to the growing number of child abuse cases recorded across Nigeria. According to UNICEF, millions of Nigerian children continue to experience violence, abuse, and neglect at home, in schools, and within their communities. The organisation has repeatedly urged authorities to strengthen child protection systems, prosecute offenders, and provide support for child victims.
Broader context of child abuse in Nigeria
In recent years, several incidents involving children being physically assaulted, starved, tortured, or subjected to degrading treatment by relatives and caregivers have sparked nationwide outrage. The Enugu incident is the latest in a series of cases that highlight the vulnerability of children in Nigeria. Police investigations are expected to continue as residents await justice for the young girl.
