Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Today, May 27, 2026, a 40‑year‑old father of three, Nzubechukwu Okocha, remains remanded at the Federal Correctional Centre in Umuahia, Abia State, after being charged before the Umuahia Magistrate’s Court for the alleged kidnapping of a two‑week‑old infant and the attempted rape of the child’s mother.
According to the First Information Report, the incident occurred on May 10, 2026, at the victim’s residence on Nnaya Street in the Olokoro community. Prosecutors told the court that Okocha, who works as a cleaner at a private hospital in the area, gained access to the home by lying that the husband had sent him to take the baby to a clinic for a routine weight check. When the mother briefly stepped out to fetch water, she returned to find her newborn missing from the crib. Hearing the infant cry from a nearby bush, she ran outside and caught the suspect with her baby. During the struggle to recover the child, Okocha allegedly tore the woman’s wrapper and attempted to rape her. Neighbours who responded to her screams rescued her and apprehended the suspect.
Magistrate Linda Eboh ordered the defendant’s remand after he pleaded not guilty to a three‑count charge of kidnapping, attempted sexual assault and assault. Okocha’s defence counsel, Barrister Chidi Nwankwo, indicated that a formal bail application would be filed, but the court refused an oral application and adjourned the matter to June 16, 2026, for further mention. The court also directed that the case file be forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecutions for legal advice.
Investigators said Okocha confessed during interrogation that a woman from the Amizi Olokoro area had contracted him to bring the baby in exchange for ₦100,000. The police have not disclosed the identity of the alleged contractor, and the investigation is ongoing.
In a statement on May 25, the Abia State Commissioner for Women’s Affairs, Mrs. Adaeze Nwosu, praised the victim and her neighbours for their swift action and urged the public to report any suspicious behaviour to the authorities. The statement said the government would ensure that the case is diligently prosecuted.
At the Federal Correctional Centre in Umuahia, Okocha awaits his next court appearance. The two‑week‑old infant, meanwhile, was reunited with her mother and is reported to be in good health.
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