A Rivers State High Court in Port Harcourt has handed down a seven-year prison sentence with hard labour to a 25-year-old man, Jerry Njoku, for defiling a 10-year-old girl, in a judgment widely hailed as a strong warning against sexual violence involving children.
Justice Rita Oguguo, who delivered the judgment, found Njoku guilty after holding that the prosecution proved the charge of defilement beyond reasonable doubt.
In addition to the prison term, the court ordered the convict to pay N5 million to the victim’s family to support the child’s care and rehabilitation.
The ruling marks another significant victory in the fight against child sexual abuse in Rivers State, reinforcing the judiciary’s resolve to hold offenders accountable.
Reacting to the judgment, Chief State Counsel in the Rivers State Ministry of Justice, Precious Ordu, described the verdict as timely and commendable, saying it sends a clear message that perpetrators of sexual offences against minors will face stiff punishment.
According to Ordu, the victim endured severe physical and emotional trauma, making the court’s decision both necessary and reassuring for victims seeking justice.
“This is a welcome judgment. It will serve as a deterrent to anyone contemplating the defilement of minors.
“A 10-year-old child suffered a traumatic experience, and the court has demonstrated that such acts will attract serious consequences,” he said.
He further noted that the compensation awarded by the court would help cater to the welfare and recovery of the young victim.
Defence counsel declined to comment on the judgment.
(The Whistler)