By Juliana Francis
A sixteen-year-old girl has petitioned a legal counsel and the Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu, calling for urgent legal intervention following months of alleged sexual assault, physical violence, and life-threatening intimidation at the hands of a suspected cult leader.
The petition, dated April 7, details a pattern of abuse that reportedly began in April 2025 when she was just 15 years old.
The petition names one Mr Bernard, alleged leader of a local cult group, as the primary aggressor. According to her, the abuse spanned eight months, concluding in December 2025.
She alleges that the accused exploited his status as a “Number One” or “Lord” within the cult to instil fear in her and her family.
She stated in her petition: “The accused repeatedly threatened my life and the lives of my family members. He said he could have me killed on the street without leaving any trace or evidence, leveraging his status within the cult to enforce my silence.”
The minor further alleged that the abuse resulted in an unwanted pregnancy, forcing her to undergo a termination at the age of 16.
She has named Dr Collins as a medical witness capable of providing evidence regarding her condition during that period.
The petition paints a picture of how the accused allegedly isolated the victim. The survivor claims Bernard manipulated a neighbour and witness, identified as Solomon, and eventually succeeded in turning her own father against her, cutting off her support system.
“These threats were the primary reason I was unable to disclose the abuse to my mother or other family members for an extended period,” she wrote.
The matter was charged at the Samuel Ilori Courthouse, Ogba Magistrate Court.
The complainant is seeking full legal representation to ensure that the accused is held accountable for sexual assault and rape of a minor, physical violence, and repeated battery. The ongoing matter was adjourned to the 7th of May 2026.
Furthermore, the petition calls for an investigation into intimidation, threats to life through cult-related influence, and interference with witnesses.
“I present this matter in full confidence and respectfully request your urgent legal intervention on my behalf,” the statement concluded.
The Executive Director of Esther Child Rights Foundation, Ms Esther Ekwem, who has been fighting to secure justice for the minor and hold Bernard accountable for his actions, vowed to continue closely monitoring the case. #Securitynewsalert.com
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