Pa. Stephen : “80-Year-Old Man Arrested For Abusing 10-Year-Old Girl”

An elderly man has been apprehended by authorities in Otuokpoti community, located in the Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, on charges of sexually assaulting a young girl.

Various gender advocacy groups, such as the Dise Ogbise Foundation, Reigneth Foundation, Starrz Safety Initiative, and Collins Cocodia Foundation, have come forward to condemn the alleged actions of the suspect, identified as Pa. Stephen by members of the community.

Reports suggest that the accused individual, who is reportedly suffering from advanced pile and hernia, has been taken into custody at the Divisional Police Headquarters in Ogbia Town, following the intervention of the advocacy groups. Subsequently, he was transferred to the state police headquarters in Yenagoa on Tuesday.

The victim’s foster mother raised concerns about her child’s well-being after noticing signs of illness and absent-mindedness. Neighbours informed her about the suspect’s suspicious behavior and financial transactions with the young girl, leading to the discovery of the alleged abuse.

According to a statement from the advocacy groups, the victim had been subjected to the abuse for approximately a year before being rescued. The community members acted swiftly upon witnessing the child entering the suspect’s residence, prompting the intervention that led to the girl’s liberation.

Founder of the Dise Foundation, Dise Harry, emphasized the collaborative efforts of the advocacy groups in ensuring the arrest of the accused individual and his subsequent detention. Medical support and examinations have been provided by the Medical Women Association of Nigeria, Bayelsa State Chapter, with plans for psychological evaluations for the victim.

The victim has been placed under protective custody by the Bayelsa State Government through the Ministry of Women Affairs, as efforts are made to address the traumatic experience she endured. Dise Harry expressed dismay over the incident, highlighting the need for vigilance and action against such atrocities.

Despite these developments, the Police Public Relations Officer, Musa Mohammed, has yet to confirm the details of the case, as attempts to reach him for comment proved unsuccessful.

Sodiq Lawal is a dedicated journalist with a passion for uncovering compelling stories in Osun State and Nigeria. His versatile reporting style covers a wide range of topics, from politics to social issues, aiming to make a positive impact on society.