Residents of Obunagha community in Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State have apprehended a 40-year-old man over allegations of sexually abusing his 12-year-old stepdaughter, triggering outrage across the area.
According to community sources, the minor was rushed to the Niger Delta University Teaching Hospital after residents discovered she was bleeding from the anus. She is currently receiving medical treatment.
The suspect, identified as a bricklayer in the community, was reportedly restrained by angry residents before being handed over to the Bayelsa State Police Rapid Response Unit (RRU) at Dor Akpoor for further investigation.
Confirming the incident, the victim’s father, who requested anonymity, described the situation as deeply distressing.
“My daughter is still under close medical care. We are devastated by what happened and are consulting with relevant authorities on the next steps, including possible prosecution,” he said.
Youth leaders in Obunagha, working alongside a gender-based advocacy organisation, said field officers had been deployed to closely monitor developments and provide support to the victim.
A former youth president of the Gbarain Youths Federation, Pere Orufa, also confirmed the incident and urged parents and guardians to be more vigilant.
“We must all take responsibility for protecting our children. Parents and guardians need to be more attentive and proactive,” Orufa said.
Meanwhile, the founder of the Do Foundation, Dr Dise Ogbise Goddy Harry, expressed concern over the rising cases of child sexual abuse recorded from last year to date.
“The frequency of these cases is alarming. There is an urgent need for renewed public sensitisation, stronger preventive measures, and coordinated action by all stakeholders to curb gender-based violence,” she said.
Police authorities are yet to issue an official statement on the matter as investigations continue.
