END OF THE ROAD FOR RAPIST: FCT HIGH COURT SENTENCES SCHOOL TEACHER TO LIFE IMPRISONMENT FOR SODOMISING 9-YEAR-OLD PUPIL

(The Convict insert)





By Jennifer Nwosu 



 …A commensurate punishment and deterrent – DG NAPTIP

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has secured another major victory in its fight against sexual violence as a Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court sitting in Abuja sentenced a 19-year-old teacher, Abdullahi Abbass, to life imprisonment for raping a 9-year-old pupil.

Delivering judgment, Hon. Justice M. Osho-Adebiyi held that the evidence before the court proved beyond reasonable doubt that the convict committed the offence, which violates Section 2 of the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, 2015. The judgment carries no option of fine.

According to a statement released by the National Press Officer of NAPTIP, Vincent Adekoye,  the case marks another milestone in the agency’s relentless campaign to protect children from sexual predators. The Director General of NAPTIP, Binta Adamu Bello, OON, commended the court’s decision, describing it as both a commensurable punishment and a strong deterrent to others.

The incident occurred on March 19, 2025, in Kwali, Abuja, where the convict served as a class teacher. After school hours, Abbass reportedly sent another pupil to call the victim from home, lured the child down a nearby street, and sodomised him. Despite threats from the perpetrator, the courageous victim confided in his mother, who promptly reported the matter to the police. The case was later referred to NAPTIP for diligent investigation and prosecution.

The convict was charged on two counts bordering on rape and sexual abuse and was found guilty on October 29th, 2025.

DG Bello lauded the Judiciary and all partner agencies for their collaborative efforts, which ensured swift investigation and prosecution.

“This is a landmark judgment that reflects the gravity of the crime. The offender’s name will be added to the Sex Offenders Register, and this ruling will serve as a deterrent to others. The prompt handling of this case underscores our renewed commitment to addressing domestic violence, rape, and sexual abuse across Nigeria,” she said.

Bello also appreciated the Nigeria Police Force for its cooperation and pledged that NAPTIP would continue to strengthen its Violence Against Persons Prohibition Department to ensure justice for victims and protection for vulnerable persons.

This conviction reinforces the Federal Government’s stance against sexual and gender-based violence and further highlights NAPTIP’s dedication to creating a safer environment for children nationwide.

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