Mrs. Ada Ogbogu, a resident of Sunrise Estate in Emene, Enugu metropolis, was arrested by the Enugu State Police Command for allegedly assaulting her three-year-old stepson with a pestle, causing serious harm.
Commissioner for Children, Gender Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Ngozi Enih, announced the arrest on Saturday, highlighting the state government’s commitment to protecting children and ensuring such incidents aren’t tolerated.
The commissioner said, “Once we were tipped off through one of our whistleblower channels on Friday, I quickly contacted the police and we all mobilised to the location, but only to meet the suspect, Mrs. Ada Ogbogu’s absence. We, therefore, headed for the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Enugu, where we immediately effected her arrest after informing the hospital’s management.
“We were also at the victim’s bedside where we met with the team of doctors handling his case. The poor boy, aged three, had his femur or thigh bone broken.
“It is heart-wrenching how wickedly some people treat other people’s children and sometimes even their own children. But in Enugu State, we have zero tolerance for such excesses.
“Governor Peter Mbah has declared that no child should suffer abuse in Enugu State under his watch. Hence, this administration has made examples of culprits. This one will not be an exception after the police investigation.
“In the meantime, the wife of the governor, Her Excellency, Mrs. Nkechinyere Mbah, is very pained by this development and has been intensively on the matter. She has promised to not only see that justice is done, but also ensure that the little boy get all the medical treatment he needs to get back on his feet as soon as possible,” Mrs. Enih stated.
The commissioner added that Enugu State maintains a strong stance against child mistreatment, sending a clear message that perpetrators will face consequences. “The state’s dedication to children’s welfare is evident in its policies and actions, making Enugu a safer place for its residents;” she said.
“In fact, Enugu State has laws in place, such as the Child’s Rights and Responsibility Law (CRRL), aimed at protecting children’s rights and promoting their well-being. The government’s proactive steps to safeguard young citizens are reassuring, reflecting its commitment to social justice and equality, particularly in education,” the commissioner added.
