Woman arraigned in Ado-Ekiti for alleged assault on minor

A 35-year-old woman, Amaka Nwaogalanya, faced assault charges Thursday in Ado-Ekiti for allegedly harming a nine-year-old girl.

Appearing before Chief Magistrate Kehinde Awosika, she pleaded not guilty.

Residing without a fixed address, Nwaogalanya reportedly injured the minor under her care during disciplinary action. Prosecutor Inspector Elijah Adejare disclosed the incidents occurred between February 2024 and March 2025.

According to Adejare, the child sustained severe injuries requiring hospitalization. He emphasized the charges align with Section 256(a) of Ekiti State’s 2021 Criminal Law.

Meanwhile, Chief Magistrate Awosika ordered Nwaogalanya to deposit ₦300,000 for the victim’s treatment at Ekiti State Teaching Hospital. The funds will be managed by the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA).

Additionally, Awosika mandated bail only after payment and submission of a surety matching the deposit. The court specified the surety must be the defendant’s blood relative.
This condition aims to ensure accountability throughout legal proceedings. Authorities adjourned the case until June 2 for substantive hearings.

Child welfare advocates swiftly reacted, highlighting rising concerns over minors’ safety. FIDA representatives pledged close monitoring to ensure justice.

Hospital sources confirmed the girl’s ongoing recovery but noted psychological trauma requires long-term care. Community leaders urged stricter oversight of guardianship arrangements.

Legal experts praised the court’s swift financial directive, calling it a precedent for abuse cases. However, critics questioned delayed intervention despite prolonged abuse.

Police confirmed investigating potential negligence by social services. Meanwhile, Nwaogalanya’s defense team argued the injuries resulted from accidental falls during play.

Prosecutors countered, presenting medical reports contradicting accidental claims. Witnesses reportedly testified to repeated physical discipline escalating over months.

FIDA’s involvement underscores collaborative efforts between legal and civil groups to protect children. Ekiti’s government recently strengthened penalties for child abuse.

Activists urged communities to report suspicious behavior promptly. “Silence enables perpetrators,” warned a child rights NGO coordinator.

The case has sparked debates on cultural norms around corporal punishment. Educators emphasized alternative disciplinary methods during a related workshop.

As public attention grows, the judiciary faces pressure to balance legal rigor with empathy. The victim’s family declined comment, citing emotional distress.

Legal analysts predict prolonged proceedings due to conflicting testimonies.

Forensic experts may reexamine medical evidence before June’s hearing.

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