A police officer attached to the Niger State Police Command and two other suspects have been arrested over the alleged sexual assault of a 13-year-old girl in Niger State.
The State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hadiza Kuta, disclosed this during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Minna, saying the arrests followed the intervention of the ministry after the victim’s family sought assistance.
According to Kuta, the parents alleged that repeated efforts to secure justice had been unsuccessful, prompting them to report the matter to the Ministry of Women Affairs.
She said the ministry acted on the complaint, leading to the arrest of the three suspects, who are now under investigation.
The commissioner expressed concern over the increasing number of cases involving the abuse of minors, describing the trend as disturbing and calling for stronger measures to protect children.
Kuta also alleged that attempts were made to divert attention from the allegations by accusing the victim of livestock theft. She said the incident occurred after the girl sold chickens to the suspects.
She warned against exposing children, particularly girls, to the dangers associated with street hawking, noting that such activities often leave them vulnerable.
The commissioner further criticised the practice of granting bail to suspects shortly after arraignment, saying it could discourage victims and their families from pursuing justice.
According to her, cases involving the abuse of children often leave lasting emotional and psychological effects, with the potential to disrupt victims’ education and future aspirations.
Kuta assured the family that the state government would continue to pursue justice and ensure the case is diligently prosecuted.
She disclosed that the victim has been relocated from her community to a secure location for her safety and is receiving appropriate care, including medical attention, psychological assessment and counselling.
The commissioner stressed the need for a thorough investigation, adding that the outcome of the inquiry would determine the charges to be filed in court.
She reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of children and other vulnerable persons, expressing confidence that justice would be served.