The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has cleared the air on the arrest of a 10-year-old boy, Bright James, in connection with the alleged defilement of a 3-year-old girl.
In a statement issued on Saturday, DSP Timfon John, the state Police Public Relations Officer, confirmed the incident happened in Uyo, the state capital and said the command is following due process.
Arrest and Investigation
Reports online had claimed the boy was illegally detained, prompting the police to now clarify.
According to DSP John, the boy was taken into custody after a formal complaint was made about the alleged act.
Medical examination during the investigation reportedly showed evidence of defilement.
The police spokesperson said the suspect confessed to the crime without being coerced, which is a key factor in the case.
Under Nigeria’s Child Rights Act of 2003, which provides legal protection for children, the police is supposed to handle such cases with sensitivity and due process.
DSP John said the suspect will be charged in a family court on February 10, 2025 as required by the law.
She also dismissed the claim of “trial by ordeal” saying such is illegal and condemned by the police.
Legal Procedure
The Akwa Ibom Police Command under Commissioner Baba Azare said it will continue to uphold the rule of law.
“Every step in this investigation has followed the law” DSP John said.
“We will ensure justice for all parties and protect the rights of the minors involved”.
This is in line with the national effort to address child protection issues which UNICEF has identified as an urgent need in Nigeria.
Child defilement cases are a sensitive and complex issue nationwide.
In 2021, National Bureau of Statistics reported over 2,000 sexual offenses against minors in Nigeria but experts believe under-reporting is still rife due to stigma and institutional gaps.
The Akwa Ibom case is a balancing act between accountability and ethical treatment of minors within the justice system.
Public Appeal for Facts
DSP John appealed to the public to stop spreading information that will compromise the case or harm anyone involved.
“Let’s trust the process and not speculate,” she said.
The police also reiterated its prohibition against extra judicial actions, saying anyone who violates the process will be investigated and punished.
As the case unfolds, stakeholders wait and see. Legal experts say specialized training for law enforcement and judiciary personnel on juvenile cases is key to ensure compliance with national laws and international child protection standards.
The Akwa Ibom Police Command is showing transparency and justice even in tough times. By following the law and getting the facts right, the authorities can win public trust and address child welfare issues.
References: Nigerian Child Rights Act (2003), UNICEF Nigeria Child Protection Reports, National Bureau of Statistics (2021).