NAPTIP Secures Life Jail for Two Abuja Guards over Six-year Abuse of Minor

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has secured a life‑sentence conviction for two security guards accused of sexually abusing a minor over a six‑year period in Abuja, a development the agency said marks a significant step forward in combating sexual and gender‑based violence in Nigeria.

James Sule, 30, and Adamu Yau, 25, were handed life imprisonment without the possibility of a fine by Hon. Justice S.M. Mayana of the Federal Capital Territory High Court after being charged under the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act.

The ruling followed a lengthy investigation and trial that stemmed from allegations that the victim—whose identity has been kept confidential—was repeatedly abused beginning at the age of six.

Court documents indicate that the first incidents occurred in 2016 at the family’s residence in Lugbe, Abuja. At that time, Sule, who was employed as the family’s security guard, allegedly lured the child into a toilet under the pretense of helping her avoid punishment after she damaged a household item.

Investigators reported that the child was threatened into silence, allowing the abuse to continue for several years. Records further show that Sule later introduced a second guard, Adamu Yau, and a third suspect named Mohammed, who remains at large.

The victim reportedly endured the trauma in silence until her parents noticed unsettling behavioural changes. She grew fearful whenever the guards approached and refused to allow them to escort her to school or pick her up.

Concerned by her reactions, the parents sought assistance at a prayer house, where the child eventually disclosed the abuse to a pastor.

The case was then forwarded to the Association for Reproductive and Family Health, which referred it to NAPTIP for investigation and prosecution.

The suspects were arrested and brought before the court in October 2023 after charges were filed earlier that year. During the trial, the prosecution presented five witnesses and seven exhibits, including medical evidence to support the allegations.

In response to the judgement, NAPTIP Director General Binta Bello said the conviction sends a clear message that offenders will face severe legal consequences.

She added that the ruling reflects the agency’s commitment to enforcing laws against sexual and gender‑based violence and to ensuring justice for survivors.

Bello also urged parents, schools and employers to conduct thorough background checks on domestic workers and service providers such as drivers, security guards, babysitters and lesson teachers.

The victim’s mother expressed gratitude to NAPTIP and the prosecution team for pursuing the case to its conclusion and securing justice for her daughter.

The convicts have been transferred to the Kuje Correctional Centre to begin serving their life sentences, while authorities continue to seek the third suspect who remains on the run.