Authorities in Enugu State have arrested a woman, identified as Mrs. Ogechi John, in connection with the tragic death of her nine-year-old stepdaughter, Amanda John.
The suspect, said to be a native of Oderiko in Ikwo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, was taken into custody by operatives of the Nigeria Police Force following the incident, which occurred at their residence in Nchatancha, Emene, within Enugu East LGA.
Preliminary reports indicate that the young girl allegedly died after being subjected to severe physical abuse.
Neighbours in the area claimed that the child had endured repeated maltreatment prior to the fatal incident, which reportedly happened around 3 p.m. on Sunday.
Reacting to the development, the Enugu State Commissioner for Children, Gender Affairs and Social Development, Ngozi Enih, strongly condemned the act, emphasizing the government’s zero tolerance for child abuse and violence.
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She stated that the government acted swiftly to ensure the arrest of the suspect and assured the public that justice would be pursued without delay.
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We are committed to ensuring that this case is thoroughly investigated and that justice is served promptly. No one has the right to take a life, especially that of a child,” she said.
The state government also reiterated its commitment to protecting children and warned that anyone found guilty of abuse or violence against minors would face the full weight of the law.
Mrs. John remains in police custody as investigations continue. Authorities have yet to disclose further details regarding the exact cause of death or the police division handling the case.
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