The Anambra State government has vowed to ensure justice for a 16-year-old girl who was gang-raped by eight men, including her guardian in Anambra State.
The state through it’s Ministry of Women Affairs, held that it has begun intervention over the matter, promising justice for the victim, prosecution of the octet suspects.
The incident which happened in Nawfia community, Njikoka Local Government Area, has subjected the victim to being two month pregnant, as reported by the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Esther Onyekesi, in Awka on Thursday.
Speaking in Awka on Thursday, Onyekesi, visibly emotional, condemned the act and pledged justice and added, “The state government condemned this act in strong terms and the ministry will ensure that all perpetrators in the dastardly act are brought to justice to serve as a deterrent to others.”
She added, “We express deep outrage over the level of trauma the young girl had endured at the hands of adults who were entrusted with her protection.
“This is unacceptable. We urge men to protect women and young girls, rather than take advantage of their vulnerability.”
The victim, who narrated that her guardian, who had been forcing himself on her later joined by other men, said that she was rescued by a Good Samaritan, after which police at Nawfia Division arrested two suspects while six remain on the run.
The Commisioner informed that the case is currently being handled at the local police station and assured the victim of safety and pledged to follow the case diligently.
Authorities stressed that enforcement against sexual violence will continue, with the government determined to ensure accountability and justice for survivors.