10 suspects remanded over rape of disabled teen, victim gives birth

Ten individuals have been remanded in a correctional facility for allegedly raping a 16-year-old disabled girl in Likoro village, Kudan Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

The case was presented on Thursday at the Chief Magistrate Court, Ibrahim Taiwo Road, Kaduna.

According to the police First Information Report (FIR), the suspects repeatedly lured the victim into different locations and sexually assaulted her, resulting in a pregnancy.

The girl, who gave birth four months ago, is now caring for a baby boy.

Prosecutor Inspector Yakubu Lemu stated that the offenses violate Section 257 of the Kaduna State Penal Code.

The FIR revealed that the victim’s brother, Usman Yusuf, reported the crime on October 27, 2024, after discovering his sister’s pregnancy.

Upon questioning, she disclosed that the suspects had deceived and assaulted her multiple times.

Chief Magistrate Abubakar Lamido ordered the suspects remanded pending legal advice from the Ministry of Justice.

The case has been adjourned to May 22 for mention before being transferred to the High Court.

Speaking after the hearing, Rabi Salisu, the state Commissioner for Human Services and Social Development, assured that the government would pursue the case to its conclusion.

She described the incident as “pathetic,” noting that the victim’s parents are blind and she herself has a visual impairment.

Salisu criticized the initial handling of the case by a now-retired Divisional Police Officer (DPO), who had released the suspects on bail.

She emphasized that capital offenses like rape should not warrant bail, prompting authorities to reopen the case.

The commissioner highlighted existing state laws protecting vulnerable groups, including:

The Child Protection and Social Welfare Law and the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act (VAPP), as well as Sex Offenders’ Registry, which publicly lists perpetrators.

The state government has pledged to provide social protection for the victim and her child, acknowledging her inability to care for the baby due to her own young age.

Salisu warned that Kaduna State has zero tolerance for abuse, especially against women, children, and persons with disabilities.

Authorities commended the police for re-arresting the suspects and reiterated their commitment to ensuring justice is served.

The Star