The Enugu State Government has confirmed the arrest of a 37-year-old man, Ozioma Okonkwo, for allegedly defiling his two biological daughters, aged two and five years.
According to a statement issued on Sunday by the Ministry of Children, Gender Affairs, and Social Development, Okonkwo — an indigene of Imo State residing in Enugu — was apprehended by the police on the night of Saturday, October 25, 2025, following a tip-off from a concerned citizen who reported the incident.
The ministry disclosed that the suspect is currently in police custody and would be arraigned once investigations are concluded. Meanwhile, the two minors have been taken into a government-approved shelter, where they are receiving medical care and psychosocial support.
The ministry further revealed that the children’s mother, described as deeply traumatised, is also undergoing therapy under the supervision of the state’s social welfare and counselling team.
Commending the police for their swift and professional response, the government reiterated its zero-tolerance stance against sexual and gender-based violence, stressing that offenders will face the full weight of the law.
“The Enugu State Government under the leadership of Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah remains unwavering in its commitment to protect every child and ensure that perpetrators of such evil acts are brought to justice. No child should ever have to endure such trauma, especially from those meant to provide care and protection,” the statement read in part.
The ministry condemned the act as a “heart-wrenching and unacceptable crime against innocence” and urged residents to remain vigilant and continue reporting suspected cases of abuse.
This incident follows a similar case in 2022, when one Michake Ogbar was sentenced to triple life imprisonment by a Lagos court for defiling and raping his three daughters aged 10, 20, and 24. Ogbar was convicted on three counts of defilement and rape, offences contrary to Sections 137 and 258(1) of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.
The Enugu State Government reaffirmed its determination to ensure that justice is served swiftly and that survivors of sexual violence receive the necessary protection and rehabilitation.
