In a landmark ruling by the Children, Sexual and Gender-based Violence Court in Anambra State, Nigeria, a middle-aged man named Kenneth Nwangu has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for the heinous crime of defiling his own nine-year-old daughter, his only child.

The court found Nwangu guilty on three counts, with compelling evidence presented by the state government. He was sentenced to seven years for the sexual assault, two years for inflicting physical injuries, and one year for causing emotional and psychological abuse on his young victim.

These offenses are punishable under the Child Rights Law and Violence Against Persons Laws of Anambra State. The court’s decision was based on testimony from prosecution witnesses, including the victim herself, as well as the defendant’s own admission of guilt.

Despite initially denying the charges, Nwangu eventually confessed to his crimes and begged for leniency. His defense counsel argued that he was a first-time offender and pleaded for mercy. However, the court ordered that the prison terms run concurrently and placed the victim under the care of the state government.

The Anambra State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Prof. Sylvia Ifemeje, hailed the judgment as a significant step in the fight against sexual violence. She emphasized the state government’s unwavering commitment to zero tolerance for such despicable acts.

This ruling serves as a powerful message to perpetrators of sexual abuse and a beacon of hope for victims. The court’s decision not only delivers justice for the young girl but also sends a clear message that such crimes will not be tolerated in Anambra State.