Tragedy struck in Calabar, the Cross River State capital, on Wednesday evening after a 10-year-old girl allegedly died following an assault by her father, identified as Joseph Emmanuel, a suspected black market petrol dealer.
The incident reportedly occurred around 7:30 p.m. at Emmanuel’s residence on Esit Ebom Street in Calabar South Local Government Area.
What reportedly happened
According to residents, Emmanuel, a father of twins, used a pipe to transfer fuel into his commercial motorcycle and the vehicles of customers who patronised his illegal fuel business. Trouble began when he could not find the pipe and questioned his daughter about its whereabouts.
Witnesses said the child was unable to explain what happened to the pipe, after which the suspect allegedly became angry and assaulted her.
An eyewitness, who requested anonymity, said the girl collapsed during the incident, prompting neighbours to intervene and rush her to a nearby church in a desperate attempt to save her. She was later confirmed dead.
Community outrage and police intervention
The incident sparked outrage in the neighbourhood, with residents reportedly attempting to attack the suspect before the matter was reported at the Atakpa Police Station.
Operatives of the Cross River State Police Command arrived at the scene and rescued Emmanuel from being lynched by the crowd.
Police confirm arrest
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Cross River State Command, ASP Sunday Eitokpa, said the suspect was taken into custody and later treated at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital after sustaining injuries during the mob action.
According to the police spokesperson, Emmanuel allegedly admitted to assaulting the child but claimed he did not intend to cause her death, stating that he acted in anger.
ASP Eitokpa added that the girl’s body has been deposited in a morgue, while investigations are ongoing. He said the suspect will be formally charged to court once investigations are concluded.
Renewed concerns over child abuse
The incident has reignited concerns over child abuse and domestic violence, with residents and child rights advocates calling for justice and stronger enforcement of laws protecting children.
Authorities have urged the public to report cases of child abuse early and to seek lawful means of resolving disputes rather than resorting to violence.
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