With the rising cases of rape and sexual abuse in the society, Caritas Nigeria has continued to champion the fight against rape and other forms of sexual and gender-based violence among Cameroonian refugees; particularly, the defilement of minors.
The latest incidence involved Ruth Biya, a 3-year old girl who fell victim to Alex Banneh, a 20 year old family friend fondly called ‘uncle’ when he came to their house and had on one occasion defiled her. On the faithful day of July 14, 2020, Alex came visiting when Ruth’s parents had gone to the farm. Alex allegedly took the child from the neighbour she was with, locked the door and raped her. Her mother discovered the next morning, while she was giving the child a bath and noticed her wincing.
On getting this information, Caritas Nigeria swung into action and facilitated a medical treatment for the child, ensuring forensic examination, administration of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) tests and other treatments, as well as providing psychosocial support for the child and her family.
Working with the Police Division in Ogoja, Cross River, Caritas pushed for the arrest of the perpetrator, despite of efforts by sections of the community to hinder the process.
The perpetrator has was charged to court for defilement and as a deterrent to children defilers and rapists within and without the settlement.
