A magistrate court in Enugu State has ordered the detention of Mrs Ada Ogbogu at the Enugu Correctional Centre on allegations of assaulting her three-year-old stepson, causing serious injury.
During her arraignment on Tuesday, the police informed the court that the crime could lead to a life sentence if she is found guilty.
The charge, numbered CME/646C/2024, alleges that on October 23, 2024, at around 2:30 p.m., Ada Ogbogu, with intent to harm, poured hot water on her stepson, Kaitobechukwu Ogbogu, and struck him with a pestle, resulting in a broken leg. This act reportedly violated Section 288(a) of the Enugu Criminal Code, which governs serious bodily harm offences within the state.
Chief Magistrate Alphonsus Edeh denied her bail application, directing that she remain in custody until the next hearing, scheduled for November 26, 2024, when the court expects to receive a report from the Director of Public Prosecutions.
Speaking to the press, Enugu’s Commissioner for Children, Gender Affairs, and Social Development, Mrs Ngozi Enih, stated that the arraignment reflects the government’s commitment to fully pursue justice, stressing that the state stands firmly against child abuse.
“This swift action by the state, including the immediate arrest and arraignment, underscores Governor Peter Mbah’s dedication to child protection. Anyone who harms a child in Enugu will face serious consequences,” she emphasized.