Rivers Court Jails 25-Year-Old for Defiling Minor, Awards Victim ₦5m Compensation
Justice Rita Oguguo handed Jerry Njoku seven years with hard labour, a ruling state prosecutors called a warning to potential offenders.
A Rivers State High Court sitting in Port Harcourt has convicted and sentenced 25-year-old Jerry Njoku to seven years imprisonment with hard labour for defiling a 10-year-old girl.
The trial judge, Justice Rita Oguguo, also ordered the convict to pay ₦5 million in compensation to the victim’s family to cater for the child’s welfare and rehabilitation.
Reacting to the judgment, Chief State Counsel in the Rivers State Ministry of Justice, Precious Ordu, described the verdict as a welcome development, saying it underscored the gravity of offences against children and the judiciary’s resolve to protect vulnerable members of society.
He said the victim suffered serious physical and emotional trauma, adding that the court’s decision was both timely and appropriate. According to him, the sentence sends a strong warning to potential offenders that acts of sexual violence against minors will attract severe punishment.
“The judgment sends a clear message that anyone who preys on minors will be brought to justice,” Ordu said. “It is reassuring for the victim, her family and the public because it demonstrates that the justice system will not tolerate crimes against children.”
Ordu added that the court-ordered ₦5 million compensation would go a long way in supporting the child’s treatment, recovery and rehabilitation.
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