By Terna Chikpa, Jalingo
Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, has directed security agencies to arrest all persons found to be intimidating the victim of the recent razor attack, Miss Iwasen Terhemba, and her guardian, following the assault allegedly carried out by Mrs. Ramatu Abbas in Donga Local Government Area.
The directive was conveyed in a statement issued through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Child Development and signed by the Commissioner, Mrs Mary Sinjen.
According to the statement, the Governor stressed that no effort should be spared in ensuring justice for the victim and in strengthening protective measures for vulnerable persons across the state.
“His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Taraba State, Dr. Agbu Kefas, has directed that no effort be spared in securing justice for the victim and in strengthening protective measures for vulnerable persons across the state. All individuals intimidating both the victim and her guardian are to be arrested and made to face the full weight of the law,” the statement read.
The Ministry reiterated the state government’s zero-tolerance stance toward all forms of violence, harassment, intimidation, and abuse, particularly against women and children.
“The safety and well-being of every resident of Taraba State remain our top priority,” the statement noted.
The Ministry further condemned the attack, describing it as a gross violation of the rights, dignity, and safety of a minor.
“The Ministry of Women Affairs and Child Development strongly condemns the violent assault perpetrated against a 17-year-old girl in Donga Local Government Area. This reprehensible act constitutes a grave violation of the rights, dignity, and safety of a minor and will not be tolerated under any circumstances.”
Mrs. Sinjen disclosed that the Ministry has been fully briefed on the incident and is actively coordinating with relevant security agencies and other stakeholders.
She confirmed that the suspect connected to the assault is currently in custody, while investigations are ongoing to ensure that all those responsible are brought to justice in accordance with the law.
“Any attempt to intimidate the victim or obstruct due process is itself a serious offence and will be addressed decisively,” she added.
The Commissioner also revealed that the Ministry is working in partnership with the First Lady of Taraba State, Mrs. Agyim Kefas, to safeguard the rights of women and children and to confront gender-based violence in all its forms.
“My Ministry is working closely with Her Excellency, the First Lady of Taraba State, to ensure the safety and rights of women and children. We are committed to confronting gender-based violence in all its forms,” she assured.
Mrs. Sinjen further stated that the Ministry is providing necessary support to the victim and her guardian, including medical, psychosocial, and legal assistance, while ensuring their safety throughout the process.
She called on residents of the state to promptly report cases of violence, abuse, or threats to the appropriate authorities, assuring that all reports will be treated with seriousness, confidentiality, and urgency.
