Residents of Obunagha Community in Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State have apprehended a 40-year-old bricklayer accused of sexually abusing his 12-year-old stepdaughter, triggering outrage and renewed calls for swift justice.
The suspect, whose identity is being withheld to protect the victim, was reportedly restrained by residents and later handed over to the State Rapid Response Unit, popularly known as Dor Akpoor (Operation Doo Akpor).
According to community sources and family accounts, the minor was rushed to the Niger Delta University Teaching Hospital, Okolobiri, after complaining of severe pain. She is currently receiving medical attention for injuries linked to the alleged assault.
The biological father of the child described the incident as tragic and distressing, confirming that his daughter remains under medical care. He said the family is consulting with relevant authorities and stakeholders on pursuing full legal action against the suspect.
A former President of the Gbarain Youths Federation, Pere Orufa, confirmed the incident, alleging that the suspect had assaulted the child on a previous occasion, with the knowledge of the mother. He said the renewed incident resulted in serious injuries, prompting the mother to raise an alarm that led to the suspect’s apprehension.
Orufa condemned the act, describing it as “disgraceful and wicked,” and urged parents and guardians, particularly single or divorced women entering new relationships, to remain vigilant and take proactive steps to protect their children from abuse.
Also reacting, Dr. Dise Ogbise Goddy Harry, Founder of the Do Foundation and a leading advocate against gender-based violence, expressed deep concern over what she described as a rising pattern of child sexual abuse in the state.
She disclosed that the incident is among three reported cases involving stepfathers between December 2025 and January 2026, in addition to two earlier cases recorded between October and December 2025, involving adult neighbours and girls aged between seven and twelve.
“These incidents are worrisome and saddening,” Dr. Harry said. “As civil society organisations, we are compelled to reassess our sensitisation strategies and strengthen preventive measures aimed at ending sexual abuse against children.”
She called for urgent collaboration among government agencies, law enforcement, community leaders and civil society organisations, urging the Bayelsa State Police Command to ensure thorough investigation and prosecution of all perpetrators.
“For us at the Do Foundation and our partner organisations, we are committed to ensuring that no paedophile walks freely on the streets of Bayelsa State,” she added.
Youth leaders in the area, including members of the Gbarain Youths Federation, have reportedly deployed field officers to monitor developments and support efforts to ensure justice for the victim.
The incident has once again highlighted persistent challenges surrounding child sexual abuse in the region, renewing calls for stronger community vigilance, sustained public education, and decisive action by law enforcement authorities.
