Man, 40, rapes 3-year-old toddler in Kogi

• He noted that Governor Ahmed Ododo had ordered government officials to work with the Nigeria Police Force to bring the culprit to justice

A 40-year-old man, identified as Elisha Daniel, has allegedly defiled a three-year-old girl in Kogi State.

The Kogi State Government described the act as “barbaric”, saying the suspect will face the full wrath of the law.

The Commissioner for Information and Communications, Mr. Kingsley Fanwo, made this known while addressing newsmen in Lokoja on Thursday.

He noted that Governor Ahmed Ododo had ordered government officials to work with the Nigeria Police Force to bring the culprit to justice.

“His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Ododo, has given a marching order to the Secretary to the State Government and other officials to work closely with the Nigeria Police Force to ensure the accused is prosecuted without delay,” Fanwo said.

He condemned the act as “appalling and unconscionable,” stressing that a man of 40 destroying the life of a three-year-old in the name of rape is unacceptable.

“Our society must have zero tolerance for such heinous acts. The law must not only bark but bite hard to send a clear message that such behaviour will not be condoned.

“The governor has also directed the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice to ensure the right legal framework is applied to secure justice for the little girl and the society at large,” he added.

Fanwo reaffirmed the government’s dedication to protecting the girl child, labelling the crime as both “criminal and condemnable.”

“The accused must explain his actions in court and to the public. Justice must prevail, and we will ensure this case sets a precedent for handling such abominable acts in the state,” Fanwo declared.

Additionally, the governor has tasked the Ministry for Women Affairs and Social Development with providing immediate support to the victim to help her recover from the trauma saying the government was also committed to showing the child and her family that they were not alone in this fight.

The suspect, who was apprehended by the police following a report from a government official, is said to be cooperating with investigators.

This case underscores the Kogi State Government’s resolve to stand against all forms of violence and exploitation, particularly those targeting vulnerable members of society.