A 47-year-old man, identified as Rayyanu Bala, has been arrested by the police in Abuja for allegedly molesting his neighbour’s young daughter after reportedly luring her with N500 during the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations. The disturbing incident occurred in the Unguwar Shadadi area of Kuje Area Council, within the Federal Capital Territory.
According to residents familiar with the matter, the incident took place at about 11:23am on the morning of the Sallah festivities. It was gathered that the victim, a minor whose identity has been withheld for protection, had been sent by her family to deliver festive food to Bala—a common tradition during Islamic celebrations, where neighbours exchange meals in the spirit of unity and goodwill.
An eyewitness, identified as Ibrahim Kabiru, told KIIN360 that the suspect allegedly delayed the girl under the pretext of appreciating her with N500. It was during this period, he said, that Bala is believed to have taken advantage of the situation and committed the act. Residents of the quiet community were said to have been shocked and angered when the child eventually recounted what had transpired.
The matter was promptly reported to the local authorities, leading to Bala’s arrest. He is currently in police custody, assisting with ongoing investigations. A source close to the police station handling the case confirmed that appropriate legal action would be taken following the completion of investigations and necessary medical examinations.
Community members have since condemned the incident, calling on law enforcement to ensure justice is served and demanding stricter measures to protect vulnerable children, especially during festive periods when such visits are common.
This case has once again highlighted the increasing need for vigilance and community awareness in curbing rising incidents of sexual abuse across neighbourhoods in the FCT and beyond. While police continue their investigation, residents of Unguwar Shadadi say they are committed to supporting the victim and ensuring such an act does not reoccur in their community.
