A Kaduna Chief Magistrate Court has ordered the detention of ten men accused of repeatedly assaulting a teenage girl with a disability in Likoro village, Kudan Local Government Area, Kaduna State. The eleventh suspect remains at large.
According to the First Information Report, the suspects lured the 14-year-old victim to various locations where the assaults occurred, leading to a pregnancy. The victim, now a young mother to a four-month-old baby boy, disclosed the abuse after her brother confronted her about her condition. Further investigation revealed that the offenders violated the provisions of Section 257 of the Kaduna State Penal Code.
Prosecutor Inspector Yakubu I. Lemu informed the court about the continuous nature of the assaults, which spanned various times and places. Trial judge Justice Abubakar Lamido ordered the suspects’ detention at a correctional facility pending advice from the Ministry of Justice. The case was adjourned to May 22, 2025, for further proceedings.
Hajiya Rabi Salisu, Commissioner for the Ministry of Human Services and Social Development, condemned the incident, noting that the victim’s age and vulnerability were exacerbated by her physical challenges and the circumstances of her impoverished family. She highlighted state laws designed to protect vulnerable groups and confirmed the reopening of the case after alleged mishandling by a former police officer.
The commissioner assured the state would provide social support for the mother and her child. She emphasised the government’s commitment to justice and protecting women, children, and individuals with disabilities. Further, Rabi Salisu issued a stern warning to the public, affirming zero tolerance for abuse or exploitation.
