Police Arrest ASP, Two Others Over Alleged Child Sexual Abuse of 13-Year-Old Girl
The arrest of an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) and two other men in Niger State over the alleged child sexual abuse of a 13-year-old girl has raised fresh concerns about the protection of children from exploitation and abuse.
According to reports, the suspects, ASP Aliyu Yaro, 49, Ibrahim Danjuma, 56, and Awwal Bala, 40—were arrested after the child’s parents sought intervention from the Niger State Ministry of Women’s Affairs. The family reportedly turned to the ministry after alleging that their attempts to obtain justice had been frustrated.
The Commissioner for Women’s Affairs, Hadiza Kuta, confirmed that the girl was allegedly subjected to repeated child sexual abuse by the three suspects. She also expressed concern over claims that efforts were made to shift attention from the allegations by accusing the child of stealing poultry.
According to the police, the case was transferred from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Minna on June 23, 2026, for further investigation.
Police spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun said preliminary findings indicate that the child allegedly sold stolen poultry to two of the suspects before they reportedly exploited her. Investigators also alleged that the police officer later lured the child to an uncompleted building, where he committed a similar offence.
The affected person has been taken for medical examination, while all three suspects remain in police custody pending the conclusion of investigations. Authorities say they will be charged in court if sufficient evidence is established.
The case underscores the urgent need for stronger child protection systems, timely access to justice for affected children, and accountability for anyone accused of abusing a child, regardless of their position or profession.
