A 12-year-old girl, Bright Sunday, has been rescued by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Akwa Ibom State, after being allegedly locked up in a dilapidated building by her father, Ndifreke Sunday, and stepmother, Victory Sunday.
Rescue and Arrest
The NSCDC State Commandant, Eluyemi Eluwade, confirmed the rescue and arrest of the suspects, stating that they were taken into custody on September 10, following a complaint from the State Ministry of Justice about the torture of the victim.
Allegations of Child Abuse
The suspects allegedly locked up the girl, claiming she confessed to being a witch responsible for the father’s afflictions. The commandant described the act as “barbaric, callous, and heinous.”
Victim’s Ordeal
Bright Sunday recounted her ordeal, saying she was denied food, bathing, and education, and subjected to consistent beatings from her stepmother. She was fed once every two days and allowed to bathe only twice a month.
Consequences for Suspects
The suspects will be handed over to the appropriate prosecuting agency for necessary action, charged under Section 10 of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Law 2020 for child deprivation and abuse.
Rehabilitation for Victim
The victim will be taken to the Gender-Based Violence Shelter Home for care and rehabilitation.
Warning to Parents
The NSCDC commandant warned parents to desist from such acts, emphasizing that the agency will continue to apprehend offenders.
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