The Children, Sexual, and Gender-Based Violence Court in Awka, Anambra State, has ordered the remand of lawyer Adachukwu Okafor in the custody of the State Criminal and Investigative Department. This decision comes in light of allegations of brutalization against her 11-year-old housemaid.
Mrs. Okafor, a resident of Chris Igwilo Street, Akakpa GRA, 3-3 Onitsha, Anambra State, was brought before the court on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, facing a two-count charge. The charges primarily revolve around the willful infliction of physical injuries on the body of one Happiness Nwafor, an offense punishable under Section 4(1) of the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition and Protection) Laws of Anambra State of Nigeria 2017.
It is alleged that Mrs. Okafor used knives and other sharp objects to cause harm to the minor.
Following her arraignment, Mrs. Okafor surrendered to the police after a N2 million bounty was reportedly placed on her by the Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye. Despite pleading not guilty to the charges, the court denied her bail application.
The case has been adjourned to February 28, 2024, for ruling.
In a post-court session interview, Mrs. Okafor’s legal counsel, Barrister Chijioke Nwankwo, expressed unawareness of the bounty placed on his client. He clarified that he was contacted for legal representation and promptly assisted Mrs. Okafor in surrendering to the police.
Nwankwo raised concerns about the trial proceedings, noting a perceived bias from the state Ministry of Women and Social Welfare. He emphasized the importance of fair treatment in the legal process.
Meanwhile, the victim has been discharged from the hospital and appeared in court.
In response to the situation, Anambra State Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, Hon. Ify Obinabo, expressed confidence in the judicial process. She announced plans for a media sensitization program to educate Anambra residents on the dangers of child abuse and urged the public to promote positive social change and protect vulnerable children from harm.