from EMEKA OKONKWO in Abuja, Nigeria
ABUJA, (CAJ News) – IN one of the most horrific suspected cases of child abuse ever documented in Nigeria, police have arrested a couple after a minor (aged 10) employed as a domestic worker suffered grievous injuries.
It is alleged the victim was mistreated to the extent of using different objects, including hot pressing iron, iron rod and nails to inflict bodily harm as well as inserting pepper into her private parts.
Police have identified the suspects as Ifeoma Ozougwu (24) and her husband Jude Ozougwu (40).
The girl is reportedly a relative of the woman, who is a mother of three children.
The alleged abuse in the southeastern town Enugwu from Enugu State has sent shockwaves throughout the volatile country.
Authorities confirmed the child had been hospitalized.
Ahmad Abdur-Rahman, the Enugu Commissioner of Police, has ordered a thorough investigation and prosecution of the suspects and other unnamed people who might be complicit in the minor’s abuse.
“He (Abdur-Rahman) bemoaned why the suspect will be so heartless to abuse and inflict such grievous injuries on another woman’s child,” Daniel Ndukwe Ekea, Enugu police spokesman, said.
Abdur-Rahaman has since warned child abusers to desist.
“The police command will not spare anyone found culpable in such inhuman acts that infringe on the dignity and fundamental human rights of children,” he warned.
He urged residents of the state to remain law-abiding and promptly assist the police in fighting the scourge of child abuse.
– CAJ News