Police in Imo State have arrested Mrs Blessing Emmanuel, a secondary school teacher, for the alleged abuse and dehumanization of her 12-year-old stepdaughter, Amarachi Emmanuel.
The arrest, made on Tuesday, followed a formal complaint filed by journalist and human rights activist, Chidiebube Okeoma, at the Owerri Area Command.
Okeoma was alerted to the situation by two concerned residents, Eunice and Amarachi, who encountered the young girl selling sachet water on the streets of Owerri.
They noticed the girl’s battered condition, including visible scars, bruises, and machete cuts, which prompted them to seek help.
In a video posted by Okeoma that has since gone viral, the extent of the girl’s injuries was revealed, sparking public outrage.
Okeoma, speaking about the case, stated: “Amarachi Emmanuel lost her mother in 2018, and her father remarried in 2019. Since then, she and her two siblings have been forced to hawk sachet water by their stepmother, who takes the proceeds while keeping them out of school.”
According to the victim, her stepmother often subjects them to physical abuse. The most recent incident occurred when the girl prepared and ate rice without her stepmother’s permission, leading to a brutal beating upon her return.
Okeoma, after reporting the case to the police, took the girl to Umuguma General Hospital in Owerri, where she is receiving medical treatment.
“I have enrolled her in the Imo State Health Insurance Scheme for vulnerable children to ensure her continued care,” Okeoma added.
He has also involved in several organizations, including the National Human Rights Commission, the Welfare Department of Owerri Municipal Council, and the Imo State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development.
The case has drawn attention from various human rights groups, the Nigeria Bar Association, and media outlets across the country.
“Child abuse has no place in the 21st century,” Okeoma stated. “I am working to ensure that the woman is prosecuted, and my goal is to secure a better future for Amarachi and her siblings, including getting them back into school.”
Amarachi is currently recovering from severe injuries, including burns and machete wounds to her legs, arms, and torso. Okeoma called on the public for support, emphasizing the need to show compassion and help the children rebuild their lives.
When contacted, Henry Okoye, spokesperson for the Imo State Police, confirmed that Mrs. Emmanuel had been arrested, adding that the Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, has ordered a comprehensive investigation to ensure justice is served.
