By Prosper Mene
A Kaduna Chief Magistrates’ Court has ordered the remand of 10 men, including a grandfather, for the alleged gang rape of a 14-year-old physically challenged teenager. The suspects, identified as Ibrahim Yahaya, Jibrin Haruna, Abubakar Yahaya, Mustapha Lawal, Jibrin Musa, Haruna Yahaya, Ibrahim Audu, Musa Yahaya, Jibrin Yahaya (the grandfather), and Jibrin Isah, were arraigned on charges of conspiracy and rape.
The court, presided over by Chief Magistrate Ibrahim Emmanuel, did not take the pleas of the accused, citing a lack of jurisdiction. Instead, the magistrate directed that the case file be forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for legal advice. The suspects were ordered to be held at the Kaduna Correctional Centre pending further proceedings, with the case adjourned to June 17, 2025, for mention.
According to the prosecution, led by Inspector Chidi Leo, the incident occurred on April 28, 2025, in the Ungwan Dosa area of Kaduna. The complainant, whose identity is protected, reported the assault to the police, alleging that the 10 men lured the teenager to an uncompleted building and took turns sexually assaulting her. The victim’s disability is said to have made her particularly vulnerable to the attack.
The case has sparked outrage in Kaduna, with community members and activists demanding justice for the teenager. Hajiya Rabi Salisu, Kaduna State Commissioner for Human Services and Social Development, described the incident as a “heinous act” and vowed that the state would pursue justice relentlessly. “This is a reminder of the need to protect our most vulnerable citizens,” Salisu said, urging stronger community vigilance against sexual violence.
The arrests were made following a police investigation triggered by the victim’s family, who reported the assault to local authorities. The case adds to growing concerns over sexual and gender-based violence in Kaduna State, where the Ministry of Human Services reported securing three rape convictions between June 2024 and February 2025.
As the legal process unfolds, advocates are calling for comprehensive support for the victim, including medical and psychological care, and stricter measures to deter such crimes. The Kaduna State government has reiterated its commitment to combating sexual violence, with plans to strengthen partnerships with civil society organizations to raise awareness and provide survivor support.
The trial’s outcome is expected to set a significant precedent in the state’s fight against sexual violence, particularly for protecting vulnerable populations. For now, the community awaits justice for the 14-year-old, whose ordeal has garnered calls for reform and accountability.
