A 55-year-old man, Joseph Hwande, has been arraigned before the Upper Area Court I in Gboko, Benue State, over allegations of gross indecency and sexual abuse involving an 11-year-old displaced Fulani girl.
According to court proceedings, Hwande, from Chigo Settlement in Gboko South, was remanded at the Gboko Correctional Centre after his arraignment on Thursday. The prosecution alleged that the minor had been left in the accused’s care following arrangements involving her mother. The girl reportedly endured repeated abuse and intimidation to prevent her from reporting the incident.
The child eventually left the residence on June 26, 2026, and was assisted by a resident who handed her over to members of a local vigilante group in Akaajime, Gboko. The matter was subsequently transferred to the Police B Division for investigation.
Barrister Innocent Tyotsugh appeared in court on a voluntary basis to represent the interests of the minor. The court has adjourned the case until July 29, 2026, for further proceedings.
The allegations remain before the court, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty. The case has sparked concern over the vulnerability of displaced children in the state.
