Five Men Detained for Exploiting and Abusing Minor in Bauchi State

Incident Overview and Arrests

The Bauchi State Police Command has taken into custody five men, aged between 40 and 47, following allegations of sexually abusing a minor in Zadawa village, located within the Misau Local Government Area. The arrest came after the victim’s parents reported the disturbing case to the Misau Divisional Police Headquarters.

Details of the Allegations

According to the police spokesperson, CSP Ahmed Mohammed Wakil, the suspects-identified as Sulaiman Adamu, Umar Adamu, Musa Ibrahim, Shu’aibu Abubakar, and Muhammad Sunusi-allegedly enticed the young girl with money, coercing her into various locations where the abuse occurred. The victim’s parents revealed that the men exploited financial incentives to manipulate their daughter.

Confessions and Interrogation Insights

During police questioning, the suspects admitted to their involvement, with some claiming the minor consented in exchange for small sums of money, typically around N500. Notably, Muhammad Sunusi confessed to abusing the child at his residence since she was five years old, taking advantage of her presence while she played with peers.

Chronology of Events and Individual Admissions

On August 12, 2025, Yusuf Muhammad and Dan’juma Muhammad reported the case to authorities, detailing how each suspect lured the minor under false pretenses. For instance, Sulaiman Adamu admitted to engaging in sexual acts with the girl after she expressed hunger and requested money, which he initially refused before agreeing to pay N500 following the encounters. Similarly, Musa Ibrahim and Umar Adamu acknowledged exploiting the minor’s financial needs to coerce her into sexual acts, promising and providing money post-abuse.

Shu’aibu Abubakar revealed that he learned about the minor’s situation from Musa Ibrahim and subsequently also engaged in sexual relations with her, compensating her with N500.

Medical Examination and Forensic Findings

The victim was promptly taken to the Federal Medical Centre in Misau for a thorough medical evaluation. The examination confirmed the presence of seminal fluid in the victim’s genital area, corroborating the allegations of sexual penetration.

Police Response and Ongoing Investigation

Commissioner of Police, CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu, has mandated the Deputy Commissioner of Police overseeing the State Criminal Investigation Department to conduct an exhaustive inquiry into the case. The suspects are expected to face formal charges in court as the investigation progresses.

Commitment to Justice and Child Protection

The Bauchi State Police Command has pledged to pursue justice relentlessly, ensuring that all perpetrators of such heinous crimes are held accountable. This case highlights the urgent need for increased community vigilance and protective measures for vulnerable children in the region.

Contextual Note

Child sexual abuse remains a critical issue in Nigeria, with recent UNICEF reports indicating that approximately 1 in 4 children experience some form of sexual violence before the age of 18. Efforts by law enforcement and child protection agencies are vital in combating this pervasive problem.