Akwa Ibom High Court Sentences 60-Year-Old Man to Life Imprisonment for R@ping an 8-Year-Old Girl

 

In a landmark case that sends a strong message against sexual violence in Nigeria, the Akwa Ibom State High Court sitting in Uyo has handed down a life imprisonment sentence to a 60-year-old man, Felix Jimmy Akpan. The convict was found guilty of raping an innocent 8-year-old girl, an act that deeply disturbed the community and highlighted the urgent need for justice and protection for vulnerable children.

Felix Jimmy Akpan was officially arraigned before the court on June 24, 2024, facing serious charges of rape. The arraignment marked the beginning of a legal process aimed at bringing the perpetrator to justice and ensuring that the victim’s rights were protected. The case was carefully investigated, and the evidence was presented before the court for examination.

After nearly a year of thorough trial proceedings, the court finally reached a verdict on May 12, 2025. The judge convicted Akpan based on the overwhelming evidence against him and sentenced him to life imprisonment — a clear indication of the judiciary’s firm stance on punishing sexual offenders, especially those who target children.

This verdict represents a significant victory not only for the victim and her family but also for society at large. It reflects the commitment of the Akwa Ibom judicial system to uphold justice and protect citizens from the horrors of sexual violence.

Barrister Emem Gabriel Ette, the Director and Head of the Akwa Ibom State Government and Gender Based Violence Response Department at the Ministry of Justice, shared the important update publicly on Wednesday, May 14. In her post, she expressed strong support for the court’s decision and highlighted the ongoing efforts of the Ministry of Justice to combat sexual violence in the state. She wrote:

“The Ministry of Justice sent one off the streets! Good riddance to bad rubbish. We move! Stop R3pe.”

Her statement encapsulates the relief and determination felt by those working tirelessly to ensure that offenders are removed from communities and that justice is served. The phrase “Good riddance to bad rubbish” vividly illustrates the necessity of protecting society by keeping dangerous criminals behind bars.

Barrister Ette’s message also underscores the vital role played by the Ministry of Justice and related government bodies in responding to cases of gender-based violence. These organizations work day and night to support victims, prosecute offenders, and raise public awareness about the need to eradicate rape and other forms of abuse.

This case is a stark reminder of the ongoing challenge that Nigeria faces in protecting children and vulnerable groups from sexual crimes. It also highlights the importance of reporting such offenses promptly and supporting victims through legal and psychological assistance.

At NaijaRush, we join the call to action issued by the Ministry of Justice and stand firmly against all forms of sexual violence. We encourage everyone to be vigilant, to speak up when they witness or suspect abuse, and to support victims as they seek justice. Together, we can create a safer, more just society where children are protected, and perpetrators face the full weight of the law.