Abia Court Jails 30-Year-Old Radiant Glory Academy Aba, Security Officer for Sexually Abusing 10-Year-Old Pupil

A Family Court sitting at the Magistrate Court in Aba, Abia State, has convicted and sentenced 30-year-old Chidiebere Kalu, a security officer attached to Radiant Glory Academy, Umuichichi, for sexually abusing a 10-year-old female pupil.

The court found Kalu guilty on two counts of indecent assault and instilling fear in a minor, following a prosecution that arose from incidents reported by the victim’s family.

Delivering judgment on Wednesday, August 5, the court sentenced the convict to one year imprisonment without the option of a fine on the first count and one year imprisonment with an option of a ₦200,000 fine on the second count. The court ordered that both sentences run concurrently.

The case stemmed from incidents that allegedly occurred within the school premises before the matter was reported by the child’s family, leading to an investigation, prosecution, and eventual conviction.

Reacting to the judgment, the Vivacious Development Initiative (VIDI), in collaboration with the Child Protection Network (CPN), Abia State Chapter, described the conviction as a significant milestone in the fight against child sexual abuse and a victory for child protection.

The organisations said the judgment goes beyond a legal victory, reaffirming that every child deserves safety, dignity, justice, and the opportunity to have their voice heard.

According to Ambassador Onyinyechi Joy Nwosu, Executive Director of VIDI and Abia State Coordinator of the Child Protection Network, the organisation provided child protection support to the survivor, monitored the police investigation, and followed the case through prosecution until judgment was delivered.

She noted that the conviction reinforces the principle that perpetrators of child abuse can be held accountable under Nigerian law while emphasising the need to strengthen child protection legislation, enforcement mechanisms, and sentencing frameworks to serve as effective deterrents.

“This judgment sends a clear message that child abuse has no place in our schools or communities and that perpetrators of offences against children can be held accountable through the justice system,” Nwosu stated.

She commended the Nigeria Police Force, the prosecution team, the judiciary, and other stakeholders for their efforts in securing the conviction.

Nwosu also praised the courage of the child survivor and her parents for pursuing justice despite the emotional and legal challenges associated with the case.

She reaffirmed VIDI’s commitment to working with government agencies, schools, communities, and development partners to strengthen child safeguarding systems, support survivors of abuse, and promote safer learning environments across Abia State.

The judgment has been welcomed by child rights advocates, who say it sends a strong warning that schools must remain safe spaces for children and that offenders will face the full weight of the law.