A Family Court sitting at the Magistrate Court in Aba, Abia State, has sentenced a 30-year-old school security guard, Chidiebere Kalu, to one year in prison for sexually abusing a 10-year-old female pupil of Radiant Glory Academy in Umuichichi, Aba.
The judgment, delivered on August 5, 2026, followed the successful prosecution of the case after the victim’s family reported the incident to the appropriate authorities. Investigations led to criminal charges against the defendant over acts committed within the school premises.
During the trial, the court found Kalu guilty on two counts involving indecent assault and intimidating a minor through fear.
For the first offence, the court imposed a one-year jail term without the option of a fine. On the second count, Kalu received another one-year sentence with an option of paying a ₦200,000 fine. However, the court directed that both sentences should run concurrently, meaning the prison terms will be served at the same time.
The judgment has been welcomed by child rights advocates across the state. The Vivacious Development Initiative (VIDI), in partnership with the Child Protection Network (CPN), Abia State Chapter, described the conviction as an important step toward protecting children from sexual abuse and ensuring justice for victims.
The organisations noted that the court’s decision sends a strong message that individuals who commit crimes against children will be held accountable under the law. They also praised the victim’s family, legal authorities, and all stakeholders whose efforts contributed to securing justice in the case.
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Child protection advocates further stressed the need for schools to strengthen safeguarding measures and create safe learning environments where children can study without fear of abuse or exploitation.
