Abuja Teacher Sentenced to Life for Raping 9-Year-Old Boy
In a powerful affirmation of justice and child protection, the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja has sentenced 19-year-old teacher Abdullahi Abbass to life imprisonment for the rape of a nine-year-old pupil.
The judgment, delivered by Justice M. Osho-Adebiyi on October 29, came without the option of a fine, signaling the gravity of the crime and the court’s commitment to accountability.
Abbass, who taught at a school in Kwali, lured the young boy from his home after school hours on March 19, 2025, and sexually assaulted him.
The affected child bravely reported the incident to his mother, leading to Abbass’ arrest and the swift involvement of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP). He was arraigned on two counts of rape and sexual abuse, convicted, and sentenced accordingly.
Vincent Adekoye, Press Officer for NAPTIP, described the ruling as a landmark moment in Nigeria’s fight against sexual violence. He credited the agency’s strengthened Violence Against Persons Prohibition Department and the leadership of Director General Binta Adamu Bello for the swift and diligent prosecution.
Bello herself praised the judiciary and law enforcement for their collaboration, emphasizing that the judgment will serve as a deterrent and that Abbass’ name will be added to the national Sex Offenders Register.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of children and the importance of robust legal frameworks in protecting them. Every child has the right to be protected from all forms of sexual exploitation and sexual abuse. Governments are obligated to take all appropriate measures to prevent coercion, exploitation, and assault of children.
