Calabar Court Jails Man For Life Over Rape Of 11-Year-Old Girl
Court Hands Down Life Sentence
A Family Court sitting in Calabar, Cross River State, has sentenced a 41-year-old man, Endurance Ime, to life imprisonment for the rape of an 11-year-old girl.
The judgment was delivered by Family Court II, presided over by Justice Blessing Egwu, following the successful prosecution of the case. The ruling has been widely welcomed by child rights advocates and stakeholders committed to protecting vulnerable children.
Rights Group Secures Conviction
The conviction was achieved through the efforts of the Basic Rights Counsel Initiative (BRCI), a non-governmental organisation known for its advocacy and legal support for women and children facing abuse and exploitation.
According to the organisation, the case underwent a rigorous legal process that ultimately resulted in the court finding the defendant guilty and imposing the maximum penalty prescribed under the law.
The verdict is being viewed as a significant step in the fight against child sexual abuse in Cross River State.
Judiciary Praised for Upholding Justice
Reacting to the ruling, Principal Counsel of BRCI, James Ibor, commended the court for its commitment to justice and the protection of minors.
He described the judgment as a strong warning to individuals who prey on children, stressing that perpetrators of such crimes would increasingly face severe legal consequences.
Ibor also acknowledged the contributions of law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and support personnel who played various roles during the investigation and trial.
Collaboration Behind Successful Prosecution
The rights advocate expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force, and the office of the Cross River State Attorney-General for their support throughout the proceedings.
He further recognised the efforts of legal practitioners and volunteers who assisted in ensuring that the victim received adequate support while the case progressed through the judicial system.
According to him, the collaboration among stakeholders helped strengthen the prosecution and contributed to the successful outcome.
Renewed Push Against Child Abuse
Observers have described the judgment as an important victory in the ongoing campaign against child abuse and gender-based violence.
The ruling also highlights the growing role of specialised family courts in handling sensitive cases involving minors and vulnerable persons.
With the latest conviction, the Basic Rights Counsel Initiative says it has secured six successful convictions within six months in Cross River State, reinforcing its commitment to enforcing child protection laws and strengthening the implementation of the Child Rights Act.
