Anambra Seminarian Arrested for Alleged Defilement of 10-Year-Old Girl
A 34-year-old Anglican seminarian has been apprehended in Anambra State for allegedly defiling a 10-year-old girl in the Amanuke community of Awka North Local Government Area. The suspect, identified as Chukwudi Okoye, was arrested by the Anambra State Government through the Ministry of Women and Social Welfare in collaboration with security operatives.
The incident, which reportedly occurred in July, came to light in August when a whistleblower alerted the ministry. Chidimma Ikeanyionwu, media aide to the state Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Ify Obinabo, disclosed that the commissioner promptly initiated a hunt for the suspect upon receiving the information.
During interrogation, Okoye, a native of Enugwu-Agidi but resident in Amanuke, claimed he only “fingered” the survivor, stating that his manhood could not penetrate her. He attributed his actions to the work of the devil and pleaded for forgiveness.
The victim recounted that the abuse took place on her graduation day when Okoye invited her and a friend to wash dishes at his residence. After dismissing the friend, he allegedly took her to bed and sexually abused her. The child was warned not to tell anyone about the incident.The grandmother of the victim discovered the abuse a week later when the child fell seriously ill. Medical examinations at the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu Teaching Hospital in Awka confirmed the assault.
Anambra State enacted the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act in 2015, which mandates severe penalties for such offenses, including potential life imprisonment or a maximum 14-year jail term. The suspect has been handed over to the police for further investigation and is expected to be charged to court soon.
This case adds to the growing list of sexual abuse cases in Anambra State, highlighting the ongoing struggle against gender-based violence in the region. Authorities continue to urge increased vigilance and prompt reporting of suspected cases of child abuse.
