File photo: Public Relations Officer, SP Grace Iringe-Koko
The Rivers State Ministry of Sports has stepped in to address a disturbing case of alleged sexual assault involving a 13-year-old female student of the Real Madrid Football Academy, located in Elekahia, Port Harcourt.
The Commissioner for Sports, Christopher Green, on Wednesday handed over the 17-year-old male suspect, who is said to be a classmate of the victim, to the Elekahia Police Division for investigation and possible prosecution.
According to reports, the handover followed a meeting convened by the commissioner, which included the alleged victim, the suspect, their parents, and the management of the academy.
Speaking on the incident, Uche Sampson, elder brother to the victim, said the assault occurred on October 22, 2025, when the suspect allegedly attacked his sister while she was retrieving her clothes from outside her hostel room.
He explained that the suspect allegedly struck the victim on the back, leading to a struggle during which she was reportedly overpowered and assaulted.
Following the meeting at the Ministry of Sports, the suspect was formally transferred to the police for further investigation.
Mr. Sampson commended the swift response of the Commissioner of Sports, describing his intervention as timely and compassionate.
“He handled the situation like a father. He was so concerned and showed genuine care,” Sampson said.
Confirming the development, the Rivers State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, said the Elekahia Police Division has commenced a full investigation into the matter.
