DONGA, Nigeria — The first lady of Taraba State, Mrs. Angyin Kefas, expressed her outrage on Friday over a violent incident involving a 17-year-old girl in the Donga Local Government Area. She condemned the attack as shocking and a gross infringement on the rights of minors.
The suspect in the case, identified as Ramatu Abbas, has been detained at the Wukari Correctional Centre after facing charges in Magistrate’s Court. Details surrounding the incident have triggered widespread condemnation, as it raises critical concerns about child safety and protection in the region.
In her statement, Kefas emphasized that no child should endure abuse or violence under any conditions. She articulated her commitment to ensuring that the rights of children are upheld and insisted that any acts of violence must be addressed rigorously. Her message underlined the importance of justice for the victim, while urging law enforcement and child welfare agencies to protect both the young girl and her guardian.
The disturbing incident reportedly stemmed from a situation where the victim, Iwasen Terhemba, rebuffed advances made by Abbas’s husband. Community accounts suggest that Terhemba, who lives with her guardian, Jemila Wanga, repeatedly stated her unwillingness to engage with the man due to her age and his marital status. The situation escalated after Abbas learned of the advances.
Following the alleged attack, which left the teenager with visible injuries, the victim’s guardian attempted to mediate by reaching out to Abbas, asking her to address her husband’s behavior. However, reports indicate that this intervention only intensified the conflict, culminating in Abbas allegedly attacking Terhemba at her home.
Further complicating the matter, reports emerged that Abbas’s husband divorced her in response to the incident, regarding her actions as both embarrassing and unacceptable. Although she initially fled to her parents’ home, she eventually turned herself in to the authorities.
The tragedy surrounding this case has sparked significant outcry, not only from the community but also from local government officials. The Ministry of Women Affairs and Child Development in Taraba State issued a statement describing the attack as a severe violation of a child’s dignity and rights. They asserted that the government is actively working with security agencies to ensure justice is served.
In a strong message, relevant officials proclaimed their commitment to supporting the victim and her guardian, underscoring that any attempts to intimidate those involved will not be tolerated. The ministry affirmed that comprehensive medical, psychological, and legal assistance would be provided to both the victim and her guardian through collaborative efforts with the first lady’s office.
The incident underscores the urgent need for vigilance and protective measures concerning vulnerable populations in Nigeria, particularly minors facing violence and intimidation. Local leaders and community members are rallying for justice, emphasizing that acts of violence against children will not be ignored.