Outrage in Ebem Ohafia as over 200 women demand justice; suspect transferred to SCID while victim receives medical care

The Abia State Police Command has arrested a 50-year-old man, Stephen Njoku, over the alleged assault of an eight-year-old girl in Ebem Ohafia, Ohafia Local Government Area.

Njoku was initially apprehended by vigilant youths in the community before being handed over to the police. Authorities have since moved him to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Umuahia, where a full-scale investigation is underway.

The young victim was immediately taken to a medical facility for urgent care following the incident.

The case has sparked widespread anger in the community, with no fewer than 200 women staging a protest to demand swift justice. The demonstrators marched through Ebem in a traditional outing known as Ikpa Mbogo, carrying fresh leaves as a symbol of protest and calling for decisive action against the suspect.

Reacting to the development, the Ebem Ohafia Development Union (EODU) strongly condemned the incident, describing it as disturbing and completely at odds with the community’s moral and cultural values.

In a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Ifeanyi Okali, the union reiterated its zero tolerance for any form of abuse, exploitation, or violation of children and vulnerable individuals. It also urged residents, particularly the protesting women, to remain calm and allow law enforcement agencies to carry out their duties.

Confirming the arrest, Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Maureen Chinaka, said officers responded promptly to the incident and secured the suspect. She assured the public that he would be charged to court once investigations at the SCID are concluded.