The Edo government is raising the alarm as incest accounts for 60% of cases of child abuse

The Edo State Government has expressed concern over the growing number of child abuse cases involving family members, revealing that incest accounts for a significant proportion of reported cases handled by the state Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development.

The commissioner for women’s affairs and social development, Eugenia Abdallah, said that around 60% of child abuse cases handled by the ministry involve incest, and many cases involve sexual abuse of children by close relatives.

Abdallah revealed this in an interview in Benin, where he described the situation as deeply disturbing, especially because some victims are children aged between two and 16.

He made the disclosure while giving an update on the case of a 14-year-old girl from Irrua, Esan Central Local Government Area, who recently gave birth to a stillborn baby.

The commissioner said the teenager was allegedly impregnated by her father and is currently receiving medical treatment and support.

According to Abdallah, the Edo State government is providing the survivor with medical treatment, psychological counseling and other forms of psychosocial assistance to help her recover from the experience.

He added that plans were also made to support the girl’s education and provide vocational training opportunities to help her rebuild her future.

The commissioner explained that the girl’s mother had died, after which the father would entrust the child with additional responsibilities that were previously entrusted to the mother.

She claimed the man later sexually abused the teenager and had previously forced her to undergo two abortions before authorities became involved.

Abdallah said the prolonged manipulation and emotional pressure the girl allegedly experienced influenced her response when officials intervened, while she was reportedly appealing her father’s arrest.

He revealed that the suspect fled after learning of the government intervention and remains wanted as security agencies continue efforts to locate him.

The Commissioner highlighted the importance of protecting whistleblowers and victims of child abuse, stressing that fear of intimidation or retaliation often prevents people from reporting such cases.

He assured residents that people who report cases of abuse will have their identities protected and will receive the necessary support from the relevant authorities.

Abdallah said perpetrators involved in child abuse cases handled by the ministry are not limited to family members, adding that alleged perpetrators also include neighbors, teachers, uncles and siblings.

He urged parents, educators, religious leaders and community members to remain vigilant and take more responsibility for children’s safety.

The commissioner highlighted the importance of schools in preventing child abuse and gender-based violence, urging teachers to educate children about personal boundaries, safety and how to seek help.

She said state clubs against gender violence and committees for the implementation of children’s rights in schools are helping to create awareness and encourage children to report abuse.

According to Abdallah, the ministry also conducts regular awareness campaigns in markets, rural communities and religious organizations to educate residents about child protection and reduce the stigma associated with reporting abuse.

He added that the state government works with the Sexual Assault Reference Centre, the police and the specialized family and magistrates courts to ensure the proper handling of sexual and gender-based violence cases.

The commissioner said criminal cases against perpetrators of gender-based violence in Edo State have resulted in prison sentences ranging from 14 years to life imprisonment.

He called on residents to promptly report suspected cases of child abuse, stressing that early intervention remains key to protecting vulnerable children.

The Edo government had previously expressed concern about incest-related abuse during a bimonthly briefing organized by the Ministry of Information and Strategy, where the case of the 14-year-old survivor was also highlighted.

Child abuse remains a major social concern in Nigeria, including: sexual abuse, physical violence, neglect, exploitation, harmful cultural practices

Government agencies, civil society organizations and child protection groups have consistently encouraged early reporting, support for survivors and increased enforcement of child protection laws.

The Edo State Government has established partnerships involving:

Gender-based violence response centres, police authorities, healthcare workers, family and magistrates courts, community awareness programs

These efforts aim to improve support for survivors and strengthen the prosecution of offenders.