Police Arrest 24-Year-Old Over Alleged Defilement of Minor in Imo
The Imo State Police Command has arrested a 24-year-old man, Wisdom Onyeaju, over the alleged defilement of a 15-year-old girl, while also detaining police officers accused of misconduct in handling the case.
The arrest followed widespread outrage after a video posted on January 3 by the victim’s sister went viral on social media.
In the video, the sister alleged that the suspect forced his way into the girl’s home during the Christmas period, threatened her with a knife and assaulted her.
She further accused officers at a police station near the Government House in Owerri of demanding ₦100,000 from the family before agreeing to take the victim’s statement.
The allegation against the officers drew strong public condemnation and renewed calls for police accountability.
Confirming the development in a statement issued on Thursday, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Okoye Henry, said the suspect had been taken into custody.
“Onyeaju, a 24-year-old male of Umuekweye, Irete, Owerri-West Local Government Area, was arrested in connection with an alleged case of defilement,” the statement said.
“The suspect is currently in custody and undergoing thorough investigation at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID),” it added.
The police spokesperson stated that the suspect would be charged to court at the conclusion of investigations.
“Upon conclusion of investigation, he will be arraigned in court with the appropriate charge(s),” the statement said.
The command also confirmed disciplinary action against officers accused of mishandling the case.
“The command has identified and detained the police officers alleged to have been involved in professional misconduct in the course of handling the case,” it said.
According to the statement, an orderly room trial has been fixed to address the matter.
“An orderly room trial has been scheduled to commence on Monday, January 12, 2026, to address the misconduct in line with extant police regulations,” the police said.
The Imo State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, transparency and accountability.
It assured members of the public that justice would be served in the case.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
