Parents of sexually abused Plateau girl accuse police of demanding N50,000 for investigation

Parents seeking justice for their 5-year-old daughter, Hauwa’u Hayatu, who was reportedly sexually assaulted in Anguwan Rogo community, Jos North LGA of Plateau State, say they are stranded after police allegedly demanded N50,000 to proceed with the case.

The child was said to have been assaulted by one Zubairu Ussaini on Thursday.

Speaking to Daily Trust on Monday, the girl’s mother, Suwaiba Iliyasu, recounted how her daughter returned home with roasted groundnuts given to her by a neighbour, prompting her to investigate and eventually uncover the assault.

She said the matter was reported at the Anguwan Rogo police station, where the Divisional Police Officer directed that the child be taken to hospital for examination. Doctors reportedly confirmed the assault, and the suspect was arrested.

According to the mother, the DPO referred the case to the Commissioner of Police, who in turn directed the family to “A” Division, where a female police officer allegedly asked them to pay N50,000 to open a case file.

The parents said they told police they could not afford the sum, and expressed fear that the suspect might be released as a result.

The victim’s father, Hayatu Muhammad, said no payment was requested at either the Anguwan Rogo Division or Police Headquarters, only at “A” Division.

“I even asked the police what the money was meant for, and where the receipt was if payment was made. We argued, and I later told them that I don’t have the money and left the division,” he said.

The parents have called on relevant authorities, including the Commissioner of Police, to intervene and ensure justice for their daughter.

The spokesperson of the state police command, SP Alabo Alfred, did not respond to calls and WhatsApp messages as of the time of the report.