The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has clarified the circumstances surrounding the detention of a 10-year-old boy, Bright James, following allegations that he defiled a 3-year-old girl whose identity has been withheld.
In a statement released on Saturday in Uyo, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, addressed reports claiming that Bright James was illegally detained.
DSP John stated that the boy voluntarily admitted to the offence without any form of coercion and confirmed that he would be charged to court on February 10, 2025.
“The attention of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command has been drawn to a viral report alleging the illegal detention of a 10-year-old boy, Bright Okon James,” the statement read.
“To set the records straight, the Command wishes to clarify that the said minor was taken into custody following allegations of defilement of a 3-year-old girl (name withheld). The case is currently under investigation, and findings, including a medical report, have provided evidence of the incident.
“Additionally, the suspect voluntarily admitted to the offence without coercion. He will be charged to court accordingly on February 10, 2025. Furthermore, the Command categorically states that there was no trial by ordeal in this matter. Such practices are criminal under Nigerian law, and the Police strongly condemn any form of extrajudicial actions.”
The PPRO emphasized that the Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, remains committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that justice is served in accordance with due process.
“We urge members of the public to refrain from spreading misinformation and allow the investigation to take its legal course,” she appealed.
