A 50-year-old security guard in Kano State, Nigeria, has been sentenced to seven years behind bars for the sexual exploitation of his 14-year-old stepdaughter. This shocking case highlights the ongoing issues of child abuse and exploitation in the country. Read on for the full story.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Abubakar Muhammad, a security guard, received a 7-year sentence.
- He was convicted of sexually exploiting his 14-year-old stepdaughter.
- The crime occurred in Kano State, Nigeria.
- Muhammad took advantage of the situation when his wife was away.
The Crime Unveiled
The Federal High Court in Kano State delivered its verdict on Monday, February 17, 2025, finding Abubakar Muhammad guilty of sexually exploiting his stepdaughter. The victim, a 14-year-old girl, was targeted while her mother (Muhammad’s wife) was away visiting Jigawa. Muhammad resided in Wailari Quarters, Kumbotso Local Government Area of Kano.
How He Did It
According to the prosecution, Muhammad lured his stepdaughter into his wife’s room and committed the heinous act. He reportedly had carnal knowledge of the girl on four separate occasions. As if the abuse wasn’t enough, he even gave her N2,000, attempting to mask his crime as a contribution to her soya beans cake business.
Evidence and Testimony
Mr. Abdullahi Babale, representing the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), presented compelling evidence to the court. This included Muhammad’s own confession and the brave testimony of the young victim. The prosecution successfully argued that the evidence proved Muhammad’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
The Legal Consequences
Justice S.M. Shu’aibu, the Presiding Judge, handed down a sentence of seven years imprisonment without the option of a fine. Muhammad was convicted under Section 16(1) of the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act, 2015, with punishment outlined in Section 26(1) of the same Act. The law is clear: such acts of exploitation will be met with severe penalties.
A Plea for Leniency Denied
Despite a plea for leniency from Defence Counsel Mr. I. I. Umar, the court remained firm in its decision. The severity of the crime and the vulnerability of the victim warranted the significant sentence.
Related Cases and Context
This case comes amidst other reports of similar crimes in Nigeria, highlighting the urgent need for increased vigilance and stronger measures to protect children. Recent reports include:
- Alleged gangrape of minor in Yobe (link to news source)
- Police recover stolen transform from vandals in Rivers (link to news source)
Moving Forward
This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals and ensuring justice for victims of sexual exploitation. It underscores the need for continued efforts by law enforcement, advocacy groups, and the community to combat child abuse and trafficking in all its forms. Parents also need to be more aware of their surroundings. A stitch in time saves nine!
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