A child-protection civil society organization, the Onurube Coalition, has submitted an urgent petition to the Imo State Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, calling for the immediate takeover of the investigation and prosecution of a case involving an alleged serial sexual exploitation of an 11-year-old girl, Ginika Obodozie, from Umudiatu Orlu Autonomous Community in Orlu LGA.
In the petition, addressed to the State Commissioner of Police, the coalition alleged that the child has been repeatedly exploited by multiple adult men within her community, with the initial police investigation at the Orlu Division, said to have being compromised and obstructed.
According to the petition, signed by the coordinator of the coalition, Marjorie Ezihe, the minor resides with an aunt who is believed to have been aiding the constant abuse of the child.
“The girl’s parents are reportedly unable to protect her due to the mother’s mental health condition and the father’s medical incapacitation. The situation is further complicated by serious allegations against the Orlu Police Division. We have credible information that the handling of the case at the Orlu Police Division was allegedly compromised through financial inducements, leading to the release of all but one suspect.” the coalition stated.
The Group, in the petition alleged external interference in the matter.
“Given these concerns, the continued handling of this case at the divisional level poses a threat to justice, child safety, and public interest. The legal basis for the request is grounded in several laws, including the Imo State Violence Against Persons Prohibition Law, the Child Rights Act, and the Constitution of Nigeria, which enshrine in the state’s primary duty to ensure the security and welfare of its citizens, especially vulnerable children.”the petition read.
The group demanded the immediate takeover of the case file by the State Criminal Investigations Department, SCID, for a fresh, unbiased investigation.
It also requested a formal inquiry into the alleged misconduct of the Orlu Police Division and other officers and for the re-arrest and proper charging of all suspects previously released.
In the petition, the goup sought for urgent action to ensure the child’s safety, including a safety assessment of her home, temporary protective custody, and provision of medical and psychosocial support.
The coalition emphasised the gravity of the situation, stating that the case involved a minor who has allegedly suffered repeated sexual violations in the hands of men old enough to be her grandfather.
“Men in their 40s, 50s and 60s, with the case further compounded by the alleged police compromise and family failure in their duty of care.”the group added.
As of the time of the petition, the organization informed that the State Police Command, had scheduled an interview with the group along with the victim.
