Police Arrest Physically Challenged Man for Allegedly Raping 10-yr-old Girl

The Nigeria Police Force has arrested a physically challenged man, identified as Ojochogwu Baba, on charges of allegedly raping a 10-year-old girl in Lokoja, Kogi State. Baba, a 49-year-old civil servant, was detained in Wada Estate, a neighborhood within the Lokoja metropolis.

The arrest was confirmed by Kogi State Police Command Public Relations Officer, SP William Ovye Aya, in an interview with newsmen on Wednesday.

Reports suggest that Baba allegedly lured the minor, asking her to buy him alcohol and cigarettes before the assault took place. Community members have voiced concerns, with Pastor Idris Abubakar, a physically challenged landlord in Wada Estate, noting that the incident has cast a shadow over the community and created a stigma against people with disabilities. “I am one of the landlords in this area, as is the suspect, and something like this has never happened here before. Now, parents are hesitant to send their children on errands,” he said.

Residents have called for the police to ensure that justice is served and that the suspect faces the full extent of the law.

Barrister Lilian Ajuma Okolo, chairperson of the International Federation of Female Lawyers (FIDA), condemned the incident, expressing deep concern for the minor’s well-being. “We are distressed by this incident. The victim is in a vulnerable state, and despite our awareness campaigns, cases of sexual violence continue to rise. This is alarming, and urgent action is needed to reduce these incidents,” she stated.

SP William Ovye Aya confirmed that Baba will be formally charged in court following the conclusion of investigation.