The Enugu State Government has taken immediate action concerning a troubling case of alleged child abuse involving Mrs. Ada Ogbogu, who reportedly assaulted her three-year-old stepson with a pestle, resulting in severe injuries.
The Commissioner for Children, Gender Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Ngozi Enih, on Saturday confirmed that Mrs. Ogbogu was arrested on Friday at the National Orthopaedic Hospital in Enugu after evading initial attempts by authorities to apprehend her at her home in Sunrise Estate, Emene.
“This decisive move demonstrates the state government’s commitment to protecting its children and ensuring that such horrific incidents will not be tolerated,” Mrs. Enih stated, adding that Mrs. Ogbogu is now in police custody.
Emphasizing Enugu’s zero tolerance for child mistreatment, the commissioner remarked that “Enugu State has a strong stance against child mistreatment, and this arrest sends a clear message that perpetrators will face consequences.”
Mrs. Enih provided insight into the events leading up to the arrest, “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.”
At the hospital, the team was able to visit the child, who is currently receiving care for a broken femur.
Mrs. Enih expressed deep distress at the incident, describing it as “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.”
In line with the commitment to children’s welfare, the Commissioner reassured that Governor Peter Mbah’s administration remains steadfast in its resolve to prevent abuse, noting that “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.”
Additionally, Mrs. Enih mentioned that Enugu’s First Lady, Mrs. Nkechinyere Mbah, is deeply moved by the boy’s plight and has taken a personal interest in his recovery.
“She has promised to not only see that justice is done, but also ensure that the little boy gets all the medical treatment he needs to get back on his feet as soon as possible,” Mrs. Enih said, reinforcing the state’s commitment to both justice and healing for the young victim.
