Ebem Ohafia Community Protests After Arrest of Man for Raping Nine-Year-Old Girl

The police in Abia State confirmed on Friday that they have arrested a man accused of raping a nine-year-old girl last week.

While the suspect remains in police custody, women from Ebem Ohafia protested three days ago to speak out against the incident. The community has urged everyone to stay calm as investigations are ongoing.

DSP Maureen Chinaka, the state Police Public Relations Officer, said: "The command is aware. The incident scene was visited, and the suspect apprehended. Investigation is ongoing at the SCID and will be charged to court on conclusion of investigation."

The suspect, identified as Njoku Stephen, lives in Ebem Ohafia. Sources say some community members had suspected him of inappropriate behavior with minors in the past.

A community member stated that the alleged crime took place on Friday. The suspect, who lives with his wife and children, reportedly threatened the girl if she told anyone. She eventually told her parents about the incident.

According to the source, the incident happened when the girl went to the kitchen for water. This sparked protests from the women of Ebem Ohafia, who are demanding justice.

The Ebem Ohafia Development Union strongly condemned the alleged sexual abuse of the girl. They called the reported incident "disturbing, unacceptable, and contrary to the values, traditions, and moral standards of the Ebem Ohafia people."

Chief Ifeanyi Okali, the Publicity Secretary of the union, said they have a zero-tolerance policy against abuse and violations of the rights of children and vulnerable people. He added, "the safety, welfare, and protection of children remain a collective responsibility that the community takes seriously."

The statement emphasized that any act that threatens the wellbeing of children will always be condemned. This incident has raised a lot of concern and strong feelings among residents, especially the women’s group.

The women responded with a traditional protest called "Ikpa Mbogo," where they dumped refuse at the suspect's house to show their outrage. They are determined to protect children and uphold the community's values.

The union urged everyone to "remain peaceful, law-abiding, and committed to due process." They assured residents that the case is under investigation by relevant law enforcement agencies.

The union expressed confidence that authorities will investigate thoroughly and ensure justice is served. They also noted that the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) is involved, which shows the seriousness of the case and the commitment of stakeholders to ensure fairness.

Community leaders asked residents to avoid spreading unverified information that could affect ongoing investigations. They stressed that justice is best achieved through lawful and fair processes.

The union remains committed to protecting children and maintaining peace in the community. They said anyone found guilty of threatening the safety of children must be held accountable under the law.

They will keep monitoring the situation and work with authorities to ensure justice for vulnerable members of society. The statement ended with a call for calm as the legal process unfolds.

Further information shows that the child was examined at Ohafia General Hospital, and the findings are part of the ongoing investigation. The case has also been reported to the Office of the Wife of the Governor of Abia State.