By Lanre Oloyede
Kogi State Government has vowed to prosecute a 40-year-old man, Mr Elisha Daniel , accused of raping a 3-year-old girl, describing the act as “barbaric” and stating that the society must not tolerate “conscienceless people.”
Addressing journalists in Lokoja on Thursday, the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Mr. Kingsley Fanwo, emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring the suspect faces the full wrath of the law. He noted that Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has issued a firm directive to government officials to collaborate with the Nigerian Police Force to ensure justice is served.
“The Chief Servant of the State, His Excellency Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has given a marching order to the Secretary to the State Government and other officials to work closely with the Nigerian Police Force to ensure the accused is prosecuted without delay,” Fanwo said.
He condemned the act as “appalling and unconscionable,” stressing that a man of 40 destroying the life of a 3-year-old in the name of rape is unacceptable.
“Our society must have zero tolerance for such heinous acts. The law must not only bark but bite hard to send a clear message that such behavior will not be condoned. The Governor has also directed the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice to ensure the right legal framework is applied to secure justice for the little girl and the society at large,” he added.
Fanwo reaffirmed the government’s dedication to protecting the girl child, labeling the crime as both “criminal and condemnable.”
“The accused must explain his actions in court and to the public. Justice must prevail, and we will ensure this case sets a precedent for handling such abominable acts in the state,” Fanwo declared.
Additionally, the Governor has tasked the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development with providing immediate support to the victim to help her recover from the trauma. The government is also committed to showing the child and her family that they are not alone in this fight.
The suspect, who was apprehended by the police following a report from a government official, is said to be cooperating with investigators.
This case underscores the Kogi State Government’s resolve to stand against all forms of violence and exploitation, particularly those targeting vulnerable members of society.
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