The Abia State Police Command has confirmed the arrest and detention of a man accused of raping a nine-year-old girl in Ebem Ohafia, as investigations into the case continue.
Police spokesperson, DSP Maureen Chinaka, said officers visited the scene after the report was received, after which the suspect was apprehended and moved to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further questioning. She added that the suspect would be taken to court once investigations are completed.
Tension has since gripped the community, as women in Ebem Ohafia staged a protest days ago demanding justice over the alleged assault. Community leaders, however, have called for calm while security agencies continue their investigation.
The suspect, identified as Njoku Stephen, is a resident of the area who lives with his family. Some community members alleged that he had previously been suspected of inappropriate behaviour involving minors.
According to local sources, the incident reportedly occurred on Friday when the girl went to fetch water in the kitchen. It was further alleged that the suspect warned her not to disclose what happened, but she later told her parents, leading to his arrest.
The women’s protest reportedly took the form of a traditional action known as Ikpa Mbogo, during which refuse was dumped at the suspect’s residence in anger.
The Ebem Ohafia Development Union (EODU) condemned the incident, describing it as disturbing and contrary to the values of the community.
In a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Chief Ifeanyi Okali, the union reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance on child abuse and stressed that protecting children remains a collective responsibility.
While acknowledging the reaction of residents, the union appealed for calm and urged the public to allow due process to take its course.
It said the matter is under investigation and expressed confidence that justice would be served.
The union also confirmed the involvement of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), noting that it highlights the seriousness of the case.
Residents were urged not to spread unverified information that could affect investigations, while the leadership assured continued cooperation with security agencies.
Authorities said the victim was medically examined at Ohafia General Hospital and findings have been documented. The case has also been reported to the Office of the Wife of the Abia State Governor.
Police However, say investigations are ongoing.