Authorities in Kogi State have taken a 19-year-old boy into custody over serious allegations of sexual harassment committed while he was disguised as a masquerade.
Details of the Alleged Assault
The incident took place in the Oboroke community, Ihima, within the Okehi Local Government Area. According to an official statement from the community's President of Ummah Affairs, the event occurred on January 3, 2026.
The victim, a young Muslim woman wearing a niqab, was reportedly returning home after fetching water from a public tap. It was at this moment that the suspect, identified as Kabiru, allegedly accosted her from behind while wearing a masquerade costume.
The statement detailed that Kabiru hugged the girl and then attempted to sexually abuse her. Community leaders have condemned the act as unprovoked, unlawful, and a severe violation of the victim's dignity, safety, and fundamental human rights.
Swift Community Action and Arrest
Following the circulation of a distress report, the community mobilized quickly. Through cooperation and vigilance, they were able to identify and apprehend the individual responsible.
The 19-year-old suspect, Kabiru, who is also from Oboroke, Ihima, has been handed over to a local vigilante group. He is currently being held by them, pending further disciplinary and legal actions that align with both community norms and the law.
Community Response and Call for Vigilance
In their statement, the Ummah Affairs leadership commended community members for their courage and prompt response, which ensured that the path to justice was not obstructed.
The statement also included a strong call to action for parents, guardians, and community leaders. It urged them to intensify efforts in the moral upbringing of young people and to caution youths against engaging in disgraceful acts that cause trauma to victims and carry severe consequences.
Most importantly, the community expressed solidarity with the victim. "We stand in solidarity with the victim, pray for her healing and emotional recovery, and reaffirm our commitment to protecting the dignity, safety, and rights of all members of our community—especially Muslim women," the statement concluded.
