Date: August 6, 2026
By Kimberly Wilson
ABA, Nigeria — A Family Court sitting at the Magistrate Court in Aba, Abia State, has convicted and sentenced a 30-year-old school security guard, Chidiebere Kalu, for sexually abusing a 10-year-old female pupil at Radiant Glory Academy, Umuichichi. The conviction has been described by child rights advocates as a significant victory for child protection and justice in Nigeria.
The court found Kalu guilty on two counts indecent assault and instilling fear in a minor—following his prosecution over incidents reported by the child's family. The offences were said to have occurred within the school premises before the matter was reported to the relevant authorities.
In its judgment delivered on Wednesday, the court sentenced the convict to one year imprisonment without the option of a fine on the first count and one year imprisonment with an option of a ₦200,000 fine on the second count. The court ordered that both sentences run concurrently.
Reacting to the verdict, the Vivacious Development Initiative (VIDI), working in collaboration with the Child Protection Network (CPN), Abia State Chapter, welcomed the judgment, describing it as a major step toward ensuring accountability for crimes committed against children.
The Executive Director of VIDI and Abia State Coordinator of the Child Protection Network, Ambassador Onyinyechi Joy Nwosu, said the organisations provided child protection support to the survivor, monitored the police investigation, and followed the prosecution through to its conclusion.
“This judgement sends a clear message that child abuse has no place in our schools or communities and that perpetrators of offences against children can be held accountable through the justice system,” Nwosu said.
Nwosu added that the conviction reaffirmed every child's right to safety, dignity, protection, and justice, while stressing the need for stronger child protection laws, more effective enforcement mechanisms, and sentencing frameworks that would serve as a stronger deterrent against crimes involving children.
She also commended the Nigeria Police Force, the prosecution team, the judiciary, and other stakeholders for their roles in securing the conviction. In addition, she praised the courage of the survivor and her parents for pursuing justice despite the emotional and legal challenges associated with the case.
VIDI reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with government institutions, schools, communities, and development partners to strengthen child protection systems, support survivors of abuse, prevent violence against children, and ensure that schools remain safe environments for learning.