The Abia State Police Command has arrested a man identified as Stephen Njoku over allegations of defiling an 8-year-old girl in Ebem Ohafia, located in Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State.

Njoku, said to be about 50 years old, was first apprehended by youths of the Ebem community before being handed over to the police. He was later transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Umuahia for further investigation.

The victim was immediately taken to a hospital for medical attention following the incident.

The case triggered widespread anger in the community, leading to a protest by about 200 women in Ebem Ohafia. The women moved through the area demanding justice for the child, carrying fresh leaves as part of a traditional protest known as “Ikpa Mbogo.”

In a statement, the Ebem Ohafia Development Union (EODU) condemned the alleged act, describing it as disturbing, unacceptable, and contrary to the community’s values and moral standards.

The union, through its Publicity Secretary Ifeanyi Okali, stressed that Ebem Ohafia has zero tolerance for any form of child abuse, exploitation, or violation of human dignity.

It also appealed for calm, urging residents—especially the protesting women—to allow law enforcement authorities handle the matter as investigations continue.

Confirming the arrest, Police Public Relations Officer DSP Maureen Chinaka said officers visited the scene and took the suspect into custody. She added that the investigation is ongoing at the SCID in Umuahia, and the suspect will be charged to court upon completion of the process.