Mr Chidiebere Kalu, a 30-year-old security guard attached to a popular school in Umuichichi, Osisioma, Aba, Abia State, has been sentenced to jail for offences committed against a 10-year-old female pupil of the school.
Vivacious Development Initiative (VIDI), in collaboration with the Child Protection Network Abia Chapter, welcomes his conviction and sentencing as a way forward in the fight against sexual abuse and child molestation.
Kalu, as gathered by DrumAfricanews, was on two counts of INDECENT ASSAULT and INSTILLING FEAR in a minor.
He was sentenced to one year imprisonment without the option of a fine on the first count, and one year imprisonment with an option of a ₦200,000 fine on the second count, with both sentences ordered to run concurrently.
The two human rights groups said that the judgment, delivered on August 5, 2026 by the Family Court sitting at the Magistrate Court, Aba, Abia State, marks a significant step in advancing justice for child survivors of abuse and reinforces the principle that every child has the right to safety, dignity, and protection.
DrumAfricanews reports that the case arose from reported incidents involving the child within the school environment and was pursued through the criminal justice system following a report by the child’s family.
VIDI, working in collaboration with the Child Protection Network (CPN), Abia State Chapter, provided child protection support, monitored the matter, and followed the case through investigation and prosecution until judgment was delivered.
While VIDI and CPN welcome the conviction as an important step towards accountability and justice for the child survivor, the outcome also highlights the need for continued strengthening of child protection laws, enforcement mechanisms, and sentencing frameworks to ensure that sanctions for offences against children serve as effective deterrents.
“This judgement sends a clear message that child abuse has no place in our schools or communities and that perpetrators of offences against children can be held accountable through the justice system,” the groups unanimously opined.
Vivacious Development Initiative and the Child Protection Network (CPN), Abia State Chapter, commended the Nigeria Police, the prosecution team, the judiciary, and all stakeholders whose commitment contributed to the successful prosecution of this matter.
“We also acknowledge the courage of the child survivor and her parents throughout the process of seeking justice, despite the challenges associated with the process,” the groups said.
They said that as organisations committed to safeguarding children and protecting vulnerable persons, VIDI and CPN remain dedicated to preventing violence against children, supporting survivors, strengthening referral pathways, and working with government institutions, schools, communities, and partners to promote safe environments where every child can learn, grow, and thrive.
Amb. Onyinyechi Joy Nwosu, Executive Director, Vivacious Development Initiative (VIDI) and State Coordinator, Child Protection Network (CPN), Abia State Chapter said that this conviction is not only a legal outcome; it is a reaffirmation that children deserve protection, justice, and a voice.
