Yobe Police Step Up Action Against Gender-Based Violence, Child Abuse
By Baba Dan’Iya
The Yobe Police Command says it has intensified efforts to curb rising cases of gender-based violence, rape and child abuse across the state.
The Commissioner of Police, Mr. Emmanuel Ado, disclosed this in a statement issued in Damaturu on Tuesday by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Dungus Abdulkarim.
Ado expressed concern over the increasing number of rape and child abuse cases reported in several Divisional Police Headquarters across the state.
He said between September and November 2025, the Command recorded 25 cases of rape, mostly involving minors below nine years, while 28 suspects had been arrested.
According to him, 10 of the cases were already in court, while others were under investigation at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID).
He said among recent arrests was that of a 20-year-old man, Rabilu Sani of Jadam Village, Jakusko, who allegedly lured and sexually assaulted a four-year-old girl on Nov. 9.
Ado said the suspect, who tested HIV positive, was apprehended by detectives and his case had been transferred to the SCID for further investigation and prosecution.
Similarly, on the same day, police in Fika Division arrested a 23-year-old grinding machine operator, Yusuf Garba of Dumbulwa Village, for allegedly assaulting a five-year-old girl in his shop.
The statement added that a third case occurred in Tarmuwa Division on Nov. 6, when two suspects, Audu Ado and Babangida Alh. Dawaye, were arrested for allegedly gang-raping a 16-year-old girl returning from a Maulud celebration in Babban Gida.
The commissioner described the acts as “heinous and unacceptable,” warning that offenders would face the full weight of the law.
He directed all divisional police officers to handle cases of gender-based violence with professionalism and ensure diligent investigation and timely prosecution.
Ado called on parents, guardians, religious and community leaders, as well as civil society organizations, to remain vigilant and work with the police to safeguard minors from sexual predators.
He further urged families to educate children on safety, avoid leaving them unattended in vulnerable places, and promptly report suspicious behaviour to the police.
The statement provided emergency contacts — the Gender Desk Officer via 08035042320 and the Police Public Relations Officer via 08065682446 — for reports and assistance.
