A 55-year-old man, Joseph Hwande, has been remanded at the Gboko Correctional Centre by an Upper Area Court I in Gboko, Benue State, over allegations of sexually abusing an 11-year-old girl who was under his care. The court, presided over by the judge, issued the remand order on Thursday following the defendant's arraignment by the police.
Details of the Alleged Abuse
According to the prosecution, Hwande committed an act of gross indecency against the minor. The child, who is said to be a displaced Fulani girl, had been left in the accused's care after arrangements involving her mother. The prosecution further alleged that the girl was repeatedly intimidated to prevent her from reporting the abuse.
The court heard that the girl fled Hwande's residence on June 26, 2026, after enduring repeated sexual abuse and maltreatment. She was assisted by a resident who handed her over to members of a local vigilante group in Akaajime, Gboko. The matter was then transferred to the Police B Division in Gboko for investigation.
Court Proceedings and Next Steps
The court ordered that the defendant be remanded at the Gboko Correctional Centre pending further hearing. The case has been adjourned until July 29, 2026. Barrister Innocent Tyotsugh appeared in court on a voluntary basis to represent the interests of the minor.
The prosecution did not provide additional details about the specific charges or evidence during the arraignment. The case has drawn attention to the vulnerability of displaced children and the need for protective measures.
