A court in Calabar, Cross River State jails a rapist for life and orders ₦1m compensation to the 13-year old victim to facilitate her recovery
By Chinedu Oguh, Port Harcourt
A Cross River State Family Court sitting in Calabar has sentenced a 27-year-old man identified as Edidiong Nyojole to life imprisonment after finding him guilty of raping a 13-year-old girl in a disturbing case that has sparked outrage among residents and rights advocates in the state.
The judgment delivered by Justice Blessing Egwu at Family Court 2 in Calabar marked the end of a legal battle centered on the brutal treatment of the young victim whose identity has been withheld for protection reasons. The court ruled that the prosecution had presented enough evidence to establish the guilt of the defendant beyond reasonable doubt.
According to details presented during the trial, the incident occurred in the Uwanse area of Calabar South where the convict, alongside an accomplice who is reportedly still under investigation, allegedly forcefully dragged the then teenage girl into an uncompleted building before sexually assaulting and raping her. The incident reportedly left the victim traumatized and drew immediate condemnation from members of the community who demanded justice for the young girl.
During the proceedings, the prosecution presented several pieces of evidence, including medical reports, eyewitness accounts, and statements obtained during the investigation. The court also considered an admission reportedly made by the defendant while the case was being heard, strongly supported the claims brought before the court.
Justice Egwu, while delivering the judgment, stressed the need for society to protect minors and vulnerable individuals from all forms of violence and abuse. The judge noted that crimes involving children must be treated with utmost seriousness, adding that the court has a responsibility to ensure offenders face the full consequences of their actions.
The Tentacle gathered that the courtroom reportedly fell silent as the sentence was pronounced, with many observers describing the ruling as a powerful message against violence targeting children. Human rights advocates present during the hearing praised the judgment and described it as a victory for justice and child protection.
In addition to the life sentence handed to the convict, the court also ordered him to pay ₦1 million as compensation to the victim to support her recovery process and reinforce accountability for the harm caused.
Tentacle further gathered that the prosecution of the case was handled by Basic Rights Counsel Initiative (BRCI), a legal and human rights organization known for advocating for vulnerable victims across Nigeria. Reacting after the judgment, representatives of the organization described the ruling as a clear indication that the judiciary remains committed to fighting violence and ensuring justice for victims.
Speaking shortly after the court session, members of the organization said the outcome should serve as a warning to perpetrators who believe they can escape punishment after committing violent acts against children. They maintained that the legal system must continue to stand firmly on the side of victims, especially minors who are often unable to defend themselves.
The organisation further stated that the judgment reinforces confidence in the justice system and sends a strong signal that crimes involving violence against children will not be tolerated. According to the group, the courage of the victim and cooperation of the witnesses played a major role in securing the conviction.
Residents in parts of Calabar also reacted strongly to the judgment, with many expressing relief that justice had finally been served. Some community members said the incident had created fear and anger when the news first broke, especially because of the age of the victim and the nature of the assault.
Child rights advocates have repeatedly raised concerns about increasing cases of violence against minors across different parts of the country. Many of them believe stronger enforcement of existing laws and quicker prosecution of offenders are necessary to discourage future crimes and protect vulnerable children.
Legal analysts following the case noted that the judgment may encourage more victims and families to speak out against abuse and violence without fear or shame. They added that many cases involving minors often go unreported due to intimidation, stigma, or lack of faith in the justice process.
The case has also reignited conversations about the safety of children in communities and the responsibilities of parents, guardians, and authorities in protecting minors from predators and violent individuals. Many praised the court for imposing a severe punishment, arguing that strict sentences can help deter similar crimes.
Others called for increased awareness campaigns in schools and neighbourhoods to educate children about personal safety and encourage early reporting of suspicious behaviour. Some activists also urged the government to provide more support systems for victims, including counselling and rehabilitation services.
Meanwhile, legal observers say the ruling reflects the growing determination of Nigerian courts to address crimes involving children with greater seriousness. Over the years, rights groups have continued to pressure authorities to ensure that offenders are prosecuted swiftly and transparently.
For the family of the young victim, the judgment may represent a significant step towards healing after months of emotional pain and legal proceedings. While no sentence can erase the trauma suffered, supporters believe the court’s decision provides a measure of justice and accountability.
As conversations continue across Cross River State and beyond, many Nigerians are hoping the outcome of the case will encourage stronger protection for children and reinforce the message that violence against minors carries severe consequences under the law.
In a related development, the Federal High Court in Calabar, Cross River State, has sentenced a 60-year-old man, Ette Okon, Ntuen, to one year’s imprisonment for harbouring a 15-year-old girl for sexual exploitation.
The judge, I. L. Ojukwu, sentenced Mr. Ntuen on 30 April and ordered him to pay ₦300,000 compensation and a written apology to the victim.
The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), which prosecuted the case, disclosed this in a statement, saying the convict deceived the victim’s parents by claiming he would take her to Lagos for schooling; instead, he harboured her in Calabar, Cross River, where she was sexually exploited.
