Arrest of Nigerian Hunter and Forest Security Officer Over Alleged Sexual Abuse of Minor
A 45-year-old officer from the Nigerian Hunter and Forest Security Service has been arrested in Lagos State over allegations of repeatedly sexually abusing a 14-year-old girl in his community. The suspect, identified as Joseph Agbo, is currently in police custody, following an investigation initiated by the Advocates for Children and Vulnerable Persons Network (ACVPN).
According to reports, the arrest was carried out by operatives from the Iju Ishaga (Red House) Division of the Lagos State Police Command. This followed a complaint from the victim’s mother and an initial inquiry conducted by ACVPN. The organization confirmed that its representatives interviewed the survivor, who provided detailed accounts of the alleged incidents.
In a statement released on Sunday, ACVPN stated, “Our attention was drawn to the case, and we carried out a preliminary investigation before alerting the police, who promptly effected the arrest.” The group emphasized the seriousness of the allegations and called for a full investigation and prosecution of the accused.
The suspect, who holds the position of senior inspector at the Ojokoro Command, is accused of exploiting times when the victim’s mother was away from home. According to the survivor, Agbo lured her into his apartment on multiple occasions and threatened her to prevent her from speaking out. She reportedly said, “He told me not to tell anyone or I would die and sometimes gave me money after the incidents.”
ACVPN highlighted that the case involved repeated incidents and urged authorities to ensure thorough investigations and appropriate legal action. The organization also commended the officer-in-charge of the Gender Unit at the Lagos State Police Command, ACP Toyin Kazeem, for the professional handling of the matter.
The case has since been transferred to the Gender Unit at the Lagos State Police Command headquarters in Ikeja for further investigation. Additionally, the survivor has been taken to a Lagos State-approved Sexual Assault Referral Centre for medical care and psychosocial support. ACVPN has pledged to monitor the case as the investigation progresses.
Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Abimbola Adebisi, confirmed the incident during an interview. She clarified that Agbo is not a member of the Nigeria Police Force but belongs to the Nigerian Hunter and Forest Security Service. Adebisi added that the suspect is being held at the Gender Unit of the Ikeja Police Command for further inquiries.
This case underscores the importance of accountability in cases involving the sexual abuse of minors. ACVPN reiterated the need for continued vigilance in reporting such incidents and ensuring justice for victims. The organization also emphasized the critical role of support systems in helping survivors recover and seek redress.
