Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Asaba — Delta State police have detained a 32‑year‑old man on serious allegations of rape, molestation and impregnating his 13‑year‑old stepdaughter, in a case that has once again spotlighted child protection and family violence concerns in the region. According to a statement from the Delta State Police Command, the suspect was arrested after credible complaints and initial investigations revealed a pattern of sexual abuse that allegedly culminated in the victim’s pregnancy.
The police, through State Command spokesperson SP Bright Edafe, said the accused is currently in custody and will be charged with offences that include sexual intercourse with a minor and related violations of Nigeria’s criminal laws. Specific details from initial statements indicate that the girl became pregnant as a result of the alleged abuse, and there are concerns that the suspect obtained abortion‑related medication in an attempt to terminate the pregnancy — a factor expected to feature in forthcoming charges.
Authorities did not immediately disclose the suspect’s name in the initial release, but confirmed that this form of sustained abuse was first reported by the victim’s relatives and corroborated by medical examinations as part of the ongoing investigation. Police have emphasised that the case is being handled with sensitivity, and the victim is receiving professional care and support services as the legal process unfolds.
Child rights advocates and community leaders in Delta State have reacted with alarm to the incident, noting that the abuse of minors within family settings remains one of the most under‑reported and traumatic forms of gender‑based violence. They have called on law enforcement to expedite the prosecution and for social services to increase outreach and protective measures for vulnerable children.
Sexual offences against children in Nigeria are covered under both the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act 2015 and sections of the Criminal Code, which prescribe severe penalties for rape, defilement of minors and related offences, including cases where abuse results in pregnancy or coerced medical procedures.
The Delta State Police Command has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that those responsible for such crimes are brought to justice, and has encouraged members of the public to report any suspicions of abuse or exploitation to the nearest police station.
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