The Niger state police command has arrested a 50-year old man, identified as Mohammed Abdullahi, from Wushishi Local Government Area of Niger State, for sodomizing four underage boys said to be his apprentices.
According to Northern City News, the suspect who is originally from Kebbi State, had no wife.
Abdullahi allegedly induced his victims with sweets, biscuits and other snacks.
The bubble burst when one of his victims opened up to his parents upon taking ill.
Shehu Musa, a victim’s father reported the matter to a vigilance group who arrested the suspect and handed him over to the police in Zungeru. The case however was subsequently taken over by the Child’s Rights Agency.
One of Abdullahi’s victims said the 50-year old forcefully had carnal knowledge of him when he slept at his house. He said he resisted and even threatened to expose him.
The Director General of the Niger State Child’s Rights Agency, Mariam Kolo, described the case as “disturbing, nasty and dehumanising.”
She added that the suspect is still in police custody and would be handed over to the state Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department for investigation and prosecution.
“We need to build the confidence of the children so that they can tell their parents anything or any challenge they are facing at any time.
“It is unfortunate and sad that a child can face this sort of situation and cannot tell his parents. Parents should stop being harsh on their children. You can be strict and friendly at the same time,” Kolo stated.
The DG said the children were undergoing medical treatment to ascertain their status as most of them had been complaining of stomach ache and passing out worms.
She added, “We are awaiting the outcome of the medical report and they will undergo counseling. We need to let them know that what is being done to them is totally wrong and should not continue.”
She reiterated the determination of the agency to tackle all forms of child abuse and to prosecute the perpetrators.
Punch
