Grandfather Abuses Minor in Gombe
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- A 64-year-old man, Abubakar Aliyu, has confessed to sexually abusing a 14-year-old girl multiple times at his medicine shop in Gombe, Nigeria.
- The suspect admitted to the abuse after the girl's mother reported the incident, stating he lured the minor and gave her money.
- The case has strained community relations, with the suspect facing charges under Gombe State's Penal Code and Child Protection Law.
A 64-year-old grandfather, Abubakar Aliyu, has confessed to the sexual abuse of a 14-year-old girl at his medicine shop in the Arawa Quarters of Gombe, Nigeria. The incident reportedly occurred on three separate occasions after the minor visited his shop late at night to purchase medicine.
She came to buy medicine around 11pm. I told her it was late and that she should go home, but she refused. I lured her. When she got home, her mother asked her where she was coming from and she mentioned my shop.
Aliyu, who was arrested following a report by the girl's mother, admitted during questioning by security operatives that he lured the teenager. He stated that he gave her money, N200 on one occasion and N400 on others, after the abuse. The suspect claimed the girl was the only minor involved and described his actions as a "temptation," denying any ritualistic motive.
Family members of the accused have indicated that the case has created significant strain within the community, leading to social distancing from the suspect. One of his children noted that neighbors have avoided them, and they are keeping their own children away from Aliyu due to the allegations.
We had sex three times and she was the only girl. I gave her N200, other times N400.
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has confirmed that the matter will be charged to court in Gombe following a full investigation. The offenses are said to contravene provisions of the Gombe State Penal Code Law and the Child Protection Law.
Even my wife asked me to leave the girl but I refused. As one grows older, the attraction changes. It was temptation. I am not doing it for ritual. I sincerely regret my actions. I have spoiled my name in my area and I am relocating because if I remain there I will have problems with the people.
Originally published by The Punch in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.