The Abia State Police Command on Friday confirmed that a man accused of sexually assaulting a nine-year-old girl last week is currently being held in custody.
Although the suspect remains detained, women in Ebem Ohafia organized a protest three days ago to denounce the alleged act, while community leaders appealed for patience as authorities continue their investigation.
Confirming the arrest, the state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Maureen Chinaka, stated: “The command is aware. The incident scene was visited, and the suspect apprehended. Investigation is ongoing at the SCID and will be charged to court on conclusion of investigation.”
According to sources, the suspect, identified as Njoku Stephen and a resident of Ebem Ohafia, had previously drawn concerns from some community members over alleged inappropriate behaviour involving minors.
A community source said the alleged incident took place on Friday. The suspect, who resides in the area with his wife and children, reportedly warned the child not to disclose what happened. However, the girl later informed her parents.
The source further explained that the incident allegedly occurred after the child went to the kitchen to get water, sparking outrage among women in the community, who subsequently staged a protest and demanded justice.
Meanwhile, the Ebem Ohafia Development Union (EODU) strongly condemned the alleged abuse of the minor, describing the reported incident as “disturbing, unacceptable, and contrary to the values, traditions, and moral standards of the Ebem Ohafia people.”
In a statement signed by the union’s Publicity Secretary, Chief Ifeanyi Okali, EODU reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy toward abuse, exploitation, and any violation of the rights and dignity of children and other vulnerable individuals.
The union emphasized that “the safety, welfare, and protection of children remain a collective responsibility that the community takes seriously,” adding that any action capable of endangering minors would always be rejected.
The statement noted that the allegation had triggered widespread concern and strong emotions among residents, especially members of the women’s group, who responded through the traditional “Ikpa Mbogo” protest. The demonstration involved dumping refuse at the suspect’s residence as an expression of anger over the alleged offence.
While recognizing the women’s resolve to defend children and uphold community values, the union urged residents to “remain peaceful, law-abiding, and committed to due process.”
EODU stated that law enforcement agencies are currently investigating the matter and expressed confidence that authorities will conduct a comprehensive inquiry and ensure justice is delivered.
The union also revealed that the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) is now involved in the case, describing its participation as evidence of the seriousness of the allegations and the commitment of stakeholders to fairness and due process.
Community leaders further appealed to residents to “avoid spreading unverified information or making statements capable of prejudicing ongoing investigations,” stressing that justice is best achieved through lawful, transparent, and impartial procedures.
Reiterating its dedication to child protection and the maintenance of peace and order within the community, EODU stated that anyone found culpable of endangering the wellbeing of children should face the full weight of the law.
The union assured residents that it would continue working with relevant authorities and closely monitor developments to ensure justice is achieved and vulnerable members of society are protected.
The statement ended with an appeal for calm while the legal process unfolds.
Additional reports indicate that the child underwent a medical examination at Ohafia General Hospital, with the findings documented as part of the ongoing investigation. The case has also been brought to the attention of the Office of the Wife of the Governor of Abia State.
