Elochukwu Benjamin
Awka
A 30-year-old security officer attached to Radiant Glory Academy, Umuichichi, has been convicted and sentenced to jail by a Family Court sitting at the Magistrate Court in Aba, Abia State, for sexually abusing a 10-year-old female pupil.
The convict, Mr. Chidiebere Kalu, was found guilty of two counts of indecent assault and instilling fear in a minor, following a prosecution arising from incidents reported by the child’s family.
The judgment, delivered on Wednesday, August 5, sentenced Kalu to one-year imprisonment without the option of a fine on the first count and one-year imprisonment with an option of a ₦200,000 fine on the second count. The court ordered both sentences to run concurrently.
Reacting to the judgment in a statement issued on Thursday, the Vivacious Development Initiative (VIDI), in collaboration with the Child Protection Network (CPN), Abia State Chapter, described the conviction as a significant victory for child protection and justice.
They said the judgment was more than a legal victory, adding that it reaffirmed that every child deserves protection, justice and a voice.
According to the organisation, the case stemmed from incidents that allegedly occurred within the school premises and was pursued through the criminal justice system after the victim’s family reported the matter to the authorities.
The VIDI Executive Director and Abia State Coordinator, Child Protection Network (CPN), Amb. Onyinyechi Joy Nwosu revealed that they worked collaboratively with relevant bodies to provide child protection support to the survivor, monitor the investigation, and follow the case through prosecution until judgment was delivered.
The organisation said the conviction reinforces the principle that every child has the right to safety, dignity and protection, while sending a strong warning that perpetrators of child abuse can be held accountable under the law.
It, however, noted that the outcome underscores the need to strengthen child protection laws, enforcement mechanisms and sentencing frameworks to ensure punishments for offences against children serve as effective deterrents.
“This judgment sends a clear message that child abuse has no place in our schools or communities and that perpetrators of offences against children can be held accountable through the justice system,” Nwosu read.
She commended the Nigeria Police Force, the prosecution team, the judiciary and other stakeholders for their roles in securing the conviction.
She also praised the courage of the child survivor and her parents for pursuing justice despite the challenges associated with the process.
Reaffirming the organization’s commitment to safeguarding children, the VIDI boss said they would continue to work with government institutions, schools, communities and development partners to prevent violence against children, support survivors and promote safe learning environments.
