Four Men Sentenced for Gang Rape of 13-Year-Old Girl in Nigeria
Four men have been jailed for a total of 95 years after being convicted of gang raping a 13-year-old girl in Nigeria, leaving her pregnant. The attack occurred in 2023 in the city of Kontagora, Niger State. The convicts—Salisu Baura, Lawali Sha’ibu, Haruna Sa’idu, and Bello—were found guilty of joint act and unlawful sexual intercourse with a child.
Court Hears Details of the Attack
The court heard that the men took turns raping the girl before giving her money afterward. The victim became pregnant as a result of the assault, prompting an immediate investigation by local police. Detectives used a medical report confirming penetration, the victim's statement, and voice recordings to charge the suspects. Initially, the men admitted to the rape but later pleaded not guilty, forcing the case to a full trial.
Arrest and Charges
The attackers were arrested by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Kontagora Divisional Command, and transferred to custody ahead of prosecution. They were charged on two counts: joint act punishable under Section 97 of the Penal Code Law, and unlawful sexual intercourse with a child under Section 26(1) of the Child Rights Law of Niger State, 2023.
Magistrate Condemns Crime as 'Animalistic'
Senior Magistrate Christy Barau, who delivered the sentencing on June 25, described the crime as "animalistic, inhumane, and heartless." She noted the rise of rape cases, particularly against children, across the state and the wider country. Defence lawyer Mohammed Jibrin Lemu argued that the attackers showed remorse throughout the trial, but the magistrate emphasized the seriousness of the offense.
Sentencing Details
Baura, Sha’ibu, and Sa’idu were each sentenced to 25 years in prison. The fourth convict, Bello, received a 20-year sentence for unlawful sexual intercourse with a child. However, local reports indicate that Bello was granted bail and is now at large.
