40-Year Old Jailed Over Child Rape In PH
2 min read
Edith CHUKU
Residents of Port Harcourt have expressed satisfaction over the judgement delivered by Justice Amaka Amanze, at a Magistrate court sitting in Port Harcourt, which sentenced 40-year old Mr. Ifeanyi Ezeji to seven years in prison for raping his 12 year old house help in Rivers State.
The devastating incident was said to have happened in 2019 at Eastern bypass. Ezeji was said to have raped the young house help at home when two of them were alone.
The culprit who was charged to court on a one count charge bordering on rape, under the Child Rights Act, was found guilty, hence sentenced to seven years in prison with hard labour, without the option of fine.
Speaking with TNN on Tuesday, July 6, 2021, Dr. Okwuonu Lilz said “this is indeed disheartening, what is he looking for in that innocent, helpless little girl that his wife cannot give? Even if he wants to have extramarital affairs, why not go out and do so, why inflict such inhuman, unforgettable injury on that innocent child that should be a daughter to you?
“This is evil, and I am happy he got what he deserves. Thank you justice Amanze for delivering justice to this defenseless young girl.”
“I want to insist that the girl be sent for proper medical care, and then for rehabilitation, because she is traumatized and she will live with that incident for a long time, such picture doesn’t go off easily.
She further urged parents to, “It is necessary that parents, especially mothers try to visit homes were their children, especially daughters stay. I am not entirely against giving your child to a relative you are sure will see to the child’s wellbeing, mostly when you have children and can’t take care of them, but it is important you follow up and be sure that the opposite isn’t the case. And mothers should keep their daughters closer, be their best friend.”
Justice Amanze while delivering the judgement warned parents and guardian to stop settling rape. and child defilements outside the court as it could have adverse emotional effects on the girl child and truncate their pathways of trust and finding happiness if justice is denied.
