A 41-year-old artisan, Nwalobi Fredrick, has been arrested in Ekwulobia, Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State, for allegedly impregnating his 16-year-old sister-in-law.
The arrest, made on Thursday, followed a report by the victim’s family to the Anambra State Ministry of Women and Social Welfare in Awka.
Chidinmma Ikeanyionwu, media aide to the Anambra State Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, Ify Obinabo, disclosed the incident in a statement.
According to Ikeanyionwu, the suspect, who hails from Ebonyi State and recently remarried in April after losing his first wife, blamed the devil for his actions.
The victim, whose name is withheld, revealed during interrogation that the abuse began shortly after she moved in with her brother-in-law. “It was just a day after settling in his house that Mr. Nwalobi first had carnal knowledge of her and ever since, has been having his way with her body,” the statement read.
The girl, now four months pregnant, stated that Nwalobi had refused to take responsibility for the pregnancy. When questioned, the suspect claimed, “I don’t have money to take care of the girl since I now have my own family.”
Commissioner Obinabo, despite the suspect’s pleas, handed him over to the Divisional Police in Ekwulobia for further investigation. She vowed to “get to the root of the matter to ensure justice for the victim to serve as a deterrent to others who are into such acts.”
This case highlights the ongoing issue of sexual abuse and exploitation of minors in Nigeria, particularly within family settings. It underscores the importance of vigilance and prompt reporting of such incidents to authorities.
As the investigation continues, the Ministry of Women and Social Welfare has reiterated its commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals and ensuring that perpetrators of such crimes face the full force of the law.
