ENUGU, Nigeria (FN) — A man identified as Ozioma Okonkwo has been arrested in Enugu State, southeastern Nigeria, for allegedly sexually assaulting his two biological daughters, ages 2 and 5, according to the state Ministry of Children, Gender Affairs and Social Development.
Okonkwo, a native of Imo State residing in Enugu, was detained Saturday night after a concerned resident reported the alleged abuse to police. The ministry said he remains in custody and will be charged once investigations are completed.
The children have been placed in a government-approved shelter, where they are receiving medical treatment and psychological support. Their mother, described by officials as deeply traumatized, is undergoing counseling under the supervision of the state’s social welfare team.
The Enugu government commended the Nigeria Police Force for its swift response and reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy on sexual and gender-based violence. “This is a heartbreaking and intolerable act against innocence,” the ministry said in a statement. “The administration of Gov. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah remains committed to protecting every child and ensuring justice for victims of abuse. No child should suffer such trauma, especially from a parent.”
Child defilement and domestic sexual violence remain widespread in Nigeria, despite tougher penalties in recent years. Rights advocates say cases are often underreported due to stigma, fear of reprisal and social pressure to conceal abuse within families.
Government and human rights groups have repeatedly called for stronger enforcement of child-protection laws and broader access to trauma care for victims. The National Human Rights Commission has urged greater collaboration among communities, police and social services to address poverty, insecurity and lack of education — factors linked to child exploitation and abuse.
In many cases, survivors face long-term psychological harm. Social workers in Enugu say the two girls rescued in the latest case are receiving therapy but will require ongoing support to recover from the trauma.
Federal authorities have also renewed commitments to children’s rights, including measures to prosecute offenders and discourage the use of minors as domestic help. Lawmakers recently approved tougher sentencing for child defilement, including life imprisonment for offenders.
In a similar 2022 case, a Lagos court sentenced a father, Michake Ogbar, to three consecutive life terms for raping his three daughters, aged 10, 20 and 24. Officials said the conviction underscored the government’s resolve to end sexual violence against minors.
Authorities in Enugu urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspected abuse to law enforcement or social services. “Protecting our children is a collective duty,” the ministry said. “Every act of vigilance helps save a life.”
