The Governor of Taraba State, Dr. Agbu Kefas, has ordered law enforcement agencies to detain individuals who are intimidating the victim of a razor blade assault, identified as Miss Iwasen Terhemba, and her guardian.
Reports indicate that the incident was triggered by a married woman, named Mrs. Ramatu Abbas, who allegedly attacked the victim in the Donga Local Government Area, due to claims of persistent harassment by her husband.
According to the victim, who resides with her guardian, Jemila Wanga, she had regularly rejected advances from the married man, identified as Mr. Abbas, citing her youth and his marital status.
The conflict reportedly escalated when Abbas’s wife, Ramatu, found out about the situation and began to threaten the minor verbally.
In an attempt to settle the issue, the guardian confronted Abbas, explaining that the harassment had originated from her husband and urging him to advise Abbas against further advances.
Nonetheless, the situation became violent when Abbas allegedly visited the girl’s home and attacked her with a razor, resulting in injuries to her face.
Following the assault, the aggressor reportedly coerced the victim and her guardian, demanding that they not report the incident to the authorities, insisting it should be resolved privately.
In a statement to the press on Thursday, the guardian called for swift intervention from authorities due to threats against her and her children.
In response to these threats, the Governor issued a directive through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Child Development, as conveyed by the Commissioner, Hon. Mrs. Mary Sinjen, articulating the need to apprehend individuals who are threatening the family.
Governor Kefas emphasized the necessity of ensuring justice for the victim and reinforced protective measures for vulnerable individuals throughout the state.
The statement declared, "His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Taraba State, Dr. Agbu Kefas, has directed that no effort be spared in securing justice for the victim and in strengthening protective measures for vulnerable persons across the state. Those intimidating both the victim and her guardian should be arrested and made to face the law."
The Ministry reiterated its zero-tolerance policy towards violence, harassment, and abuse, particularly targeting women and children, asserting, "The safety and well-being of every resident of Taraba State remains our top priority."
Furthermore, the Ministry condemned the brutal assault on the 17-year-old girl, denouncing it as a serious infringement on the rights and dignity of a minor.
“The Ministry has been fully briefed about the event and is currently collaborating with relevant security agencies to respond appropriately to the situation. This reprehensible act will not be tolerated under any circumstances,” they stated.
While the suspect involved in the attack is already in custody, investigations are in progress to ensure all accountable parties are brought to justice.
"Any attempts to intimidate the victim or obstruct due process is a significant offense and will be dealt with harshly," the statement concluded.
Mrs. Sinjen outlined that the Ministry is working closely with the state’s First Lady, Mrs. Agyim Kefas, to uphold the rights of women and children while actively addressing gender-based violence.
“Using every available resource, my Ministry is committed to ensuring the safety and rights of women, actively tackling gender-based violence in all its forms,” she affirmed.
Additionally, the Ministry is providing necessary support for the victim and her guardian, which covers medical, psychosocial, and legal assistance, while also ensuring their safety during the entire process.
She urged the public to report any incidents of violence or abuse to the relevant authorities, guaranteeing that all reports will be handled with the utmost seriousness, confidentiality, and promptness.
Victor Mshelizah, the spokesman for the Taraba State Police Command, confirmed the incident reporting and stated that inquiries are ongoing. "The victim was at the police station, and her statement has been taken. The case file is being compiled and will be charged in court," he reported.
He added that even if some community members pressure the victim not to proceed with the case, the police will continue to fulfill their duty without compromise.
“We are aware of the pressures directed at the family to drop the case, but we will ensure that anyone found guilty is brought to justice,” he said.
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