The Abia State Police Command has arrested a 50-year-old man, Stephen Njoku, for allegedly defiling an 8-year-old girl in Ebem Ohafia, Ohafia Local Government Area.
Njoku was apprehended by youths in the Ebem community and handed over to the police before being transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Umuahia for further investigation. The victim was taken to the hospital for immediate medical attention.
The incident sparked a protest by about 200 women from Ebem who marched through the community demanding justice for the child. The women carried fresh leaves and performed Ikpa Mbogo, a traditional outing against the suspect.
The Ebem Ohafia Development Union has condemned the alleged abuse, describing it as disturbing and contrary to the values and traditions of the community.
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In a statement signed by Publicity Secretary Ifeanyi Okali, the union stressed that Ebem Ohafia has zero tolerance for any form of abuse or violation of children’s rights.
The union urged residents, especially the aggrieved women, to remain calm as law enforcement authorities handle the investigation and ensure justice is served.
Confirming the incident, Police Public Relations Officer DSP Maureen Chinaka said officers visited the scene and arrested the suspect.
She assured the public that Njoku would be charged to court once the investigation at the State Criminal Investigation Department is concluded.
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