BENIN CITY, Nigeria (FN) — Authorities in Nigeria’s Delta state have arrested two men in separate cases of alleged sexual abuse of their daughters, police said, sparking outrage and renewed calls for stronger child protection measures in a country where violence against children remains widespread.
Delta State Police Command confirmed the arrests in Ugborikoko and Otu‑Jeremi divisions. In one case, officers detained a 54‑year‑old man accused of abusing his three daughters for seven years. In another, a 48‑year‑old man identified as David was arrested for allegedly raping his 10‑year‑old daughter and infecting her with HIV/AIDS.
Police spokespersons said medical examinations confirmed abuse in both cases. “We will ensure justice is served and perpetrators face the full weight of the law,” the command stated, urging communities to report suspected abuse promptly.
Nigeria’s Child Rights Act of 2003 explicitly prohibits sexual intercourse with minors. Section 31 of the Act makes child rape punishable by life imprisonment. Legal experts note that convictions under this law carry some of the harshest penalties in the country’s criminal code.
Activists condemned the incidents and called for stricter enforcement. “These cases show how abuse thrives in silence. Survivors need medical care, counseling, and legal protection,” said a representative of a child rights group in Abuja.
UNICEF reports that six out of 10 Nigerian children experience some form of violence, with one in four girls and 10 percent of boys victims of sexual violence. Yet fewer than five percent of those who report abuse receive any support. Advocates say this gap underscores the urgent need for stronger systems to protect children.
Nigeria has nearly 105 million children and adolescents, representing about half of its population. UNICEF’s recent situation analysis warned that investment in child protection is critical to the country’s long‑term development.
Community leaders in Delta state expressed shock at the arrests, noting that such crimes often occur behind closed doors. They urged families to break the culture of silence that allows abuse to persist.
The suspects remain in custody as investigations continue. Police said charges will be filed once evidence is fully documented. Both cases are expected to proceed to court in the coming weeks.
International observers say the arrests highlight Nigeria’s struggle to enforce child protection laws despite having strong legislation on paper. Advocates argue that consistent enforcement, community awareness, and survivor support are essential to turning laws into real safeguards for children.
