A Rivers State High Court sitting in Port Harcourt has convicted and sentenced a 25-year-old man, Jerry Njoku, to seven years imprisonment with hard labour for defiling a 10-year-old girl.
Delivering judgment on Tuesday, the presiding judge, Justice Rita Oguguo, held that the prosecution proved the offence of defilement beyond reasonable doubt and consequently found the defendant guilty.
In addition to the prison sentence, the court ordered Njoku to pay a fine of N5 million to the family of the victim to support the child’s welfare and upkeep. The court directed that the custodial sentence would run concurrently with the financial penalty.
The case was prosecuted by the Rivers State Ministry of Justice through Chief State Counsel, Precious Ordu, who welcomed the judgment, describing it as a victory for justice and a strong message against sexual violence involving children.
Ordu said the verdict reaffirmed the judiciary’s commitment to protecting vulnerable members of society and ensuring that perpetrators of sexual offences are held accountable.
The defence counsel declined to comment on the court’s decision following the judgment.
The conviction is expected to strengthen ongoing efforts by the Rivers State Government and relevant agencies to combat sexual and gender-based violence, particularly offences against minors, while encouraging victims and their families to report such crimes without fear.
The judgment underscores the legal consequences for child sexual abuse and reinforces the courts’ role in safeguarding the rights and welfare of children.
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