A 65-year-old pastor named Francis Ogwu, who is the General Overseer of Jesus House of Joy Church in Awka, Anambra State, has been arrested for sexually abusing his 7-year-old domestic helper.
The incident came to light after concerned residents in the community raised an alarm, prompting the intervention of the state’s Ministry of Women and Social Welfare. During interrogation, Ogwu confessed to “just fingering the girl once,” but denied other allegations of penetration made by the victim.
The 7-year-old girl stated that her guardian, Ogwu, had sexually abused her three times, and he would give her money ranging from 500 to 1,000 Naira after each incident. She also revealed that Ogwu’s wife had accused her of trying to steal her husband.
The victim’s mother, a native of Awka, had entrusted her daughter to the Ogwu family due to their long-standing relationship, but was shocked when the girl returned home and disclosed the abuse. The mother immediately contacted Ogwu, who denied the allegations, prompting her to involve the authorities.
The Women and Social Welfare Commissioner, Ify Obinabo, vowed to ensure the victim receives justice and advised women to be vigilant and not withhold intimacy from their husbands, as this could lead to such unacceptable behavior. Obinabo also emphasized that defilement is no longer excusable in Anambra State.
Despite the family of the suspect pleading for pardon, the case has been transferred to the police, and it will be charged to court.