The police command in Akwa Ibom state says a 10-year-old boy is currently in detention over alleged defilement of a three-year-old girl.

A statement on Saturday by Timfon John, the state’s police spokesperson, said the boy admitted to committing the offence without coercion.

He denied the claim that the boy was subjected to trial by ordeal after his arrest.

“To set the records straight, the command wishes to clarify that the said minor was taken into custody following allegations of defilement of a 3-year-old girl (name withheld),” the statement reads.

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“The case is currently under investigation and findings, including a medical report, have provided evidence of the incident.

“Additionally, the suspect voluntarily admitted to the offence without coercion. He will be charged to court accordingly on the 10th of February, 2025.

“Furthermore, the command categorically states that there was no trial by ordeal in this matter. Such practices are criminal under Nigerian law, and the police strongly condemn any form of extrajudicial actions.”

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The spokesperson said Baba Azare, the Akwa Ibom police commissioner, is committed to ensuring justice is served in line with due process.

She advised the public to exercise patience and allow investigations into the case run its legal course