A man, Kenneth Nwangu, has been handed a 10-year prison sentence by the Children, Sexual and Gender-based Violence Court in High Court, Awka, Anambra State. His crime? He defiled his own nine-year-old daughter, his only child.
The court found Nwangu guilty on three counts brought against him by the state government. He was sentenced to seven years for having sexual intercourse with a minor, two years for inflicting physical injuries on his victim, and one year for causing emotional and psychological abuse.
These heinous acts are punishable under the Child Rights Law and Violence Against Persons Law of Anambra State. The court based its decision on compelling evidence presented by prosecution witnesses, including the victim herself.
Nwangu initially denied the charges, blaming a woman he left his child with after his wife’s departure for his arrest. However, he later confessed to the crimes and begged for leniency, citing his status as a first-time offender and his daughter as his only child.
The court ordered the prison terms to run concurrently and mandated that the victim remain under the care of the Anambra State Government. The State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Prof. Sylvia Ifemeje, hailed the judgment as a step in the right direction, emphasizing the government’s unwavering stance against sexual assault.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals and holding perpetrators accountable for their actions. Let us stand together in solidarity against such atrocities and strive for a safer, more just society for all.
