Two elders arrested in Imo community over alleged defilement of 7-year-old girl

Two elderly men have been arrested in Nekede, Owerri West LGA of Imo State by the police, in connection with the alleged defilement of a 7-year-old girl.

The suspects, identified as Godfrey Enyereibe Amadi, 70, and Sidney Onyemere, reportedly in his late 60s, are said to be members of the Council of Elders in Umuezereokam Village, Umuoma Autonomous Community.

The alleged incident was reported to have occurred on multiple occasions and at different locations, according to sources.

A community sources also confirmed that the victim had earlier reported the incident to the youth wing of the village.

Mr Oparaku, a native of the community, told Journalists that the arrest of the two elders prompted immediate reaction in the community with many calling for accountability. 

“It’s time for all wrongdoers in this community to be exposed. Justice must prevail,” Oparaku, said.

The youth president of the community, Okechukwu Ozioma and other members, who spoke to newsmen, demanded a transparent investigation by the Police, alleging that previous attempts were made to shield the suspects from prosecution due to their positions in the council.

The mother of the victim, Mrs Chizoma Ndukuba, who expressed shock over the alleged defilement of her daughter, said the suspects should be made to face the wrath of the law, adding that she wants justice for her daughter.

She called on the state government, especially the Ministry of Women’s Affairs and Child Development, the Police and Human Rights organisations, not excluding the Elders Council, to intervene and ensure that the truth comes out at the end of the day.

Mrs Ndukuba maintained that finding justice for her daughter will be the only way to protect other young girls in the community.

One of the community leaders alleged that Mr Onyemere has been in the habit of defiling little girls, including a 13-year- old daughter of his neighbour, which resulted in a series of public punishment and flogging.

There are reports that the State Police Command, in collaboration with the Ministry of Women Affairs, Social Development, and Child Protection Network, are currently handling the case.

Police sources further confirmed that the child is currently receiving medical attention and will undergo some medical check-ups to ascertain her health condition.

Two elders arrested in Imo community over alleged defilement of 7-year-old girl