The Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, has offered a reward of N1 million for information leading to the arrest of Magnus Okpalannadi, a 62-year-old man accused of sexually abusing his three-year-old daughter.
According to a statement released by the ministry’s spokesperson, Grace Njoku, on Wednesday, the minister was informed that Okpalannadi, a resident of Onitsha in Anambra State, had been allegedly sexually exploiting his minor daughter.
The suspect, however, disappeared before he could be apprehended.
Mrs Kennedy-Ohanenye further pledged the government’s resolve to protect the rights of every Nigerian child.
She also reiterated the government’s commitment to creating a safe environment for its citizens.
“President Bola Tinubu-led administration has zero tolerance for child abuse and molestation.
“Hence would ensure the immediate prosecution of the pedophile to serve as a deterrent to would-be perpetrators,” she said.
The minister’s action demonstrates a strong commitment to protecting the rights and safety of children, and ensuring that those who perpetrate such heinous crimes are held accountable.
The offer of a bounty is a significant step towards encouraging individuals with information to come forward and assist in bringing the alleged perpetrator to justice.
Recall that on 10 July, News About Nigeria reported the arraignment of a 65-year-old cleric who allegedly raped a 10-year-old girl, still in Anambra State.
The accused, Francis Ogwu, lives in Umuike village in Awka. He is a pastor and general overseer of Jesus House of Joy Church, Awka. The survivor was his domestic worker.
The man committed the offence on 27 June at his residence, the police prosecutor told the court during his arraignment.
