By Milcah Tanimu
The Children, Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Court in Awka has remanded Adachukwu Okafor, a lawyer from Anambra, in custody. Okafor faces charges of inflicting physical injuries on her 11-year-old housekeeper, Happiness Nwafor, allegedly using objects like a broken bottle, knife, and electric iron.
Okafor, residing in Chris Igwilo Street, Akapka GRA, 3-3 Onitsha, was arraigned on Wednesday before Judge Genevieve Osakwe on two counts. The charges are under Section 4(1) of the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition and Protection) Laws of Anambra State.
Despite pleading not guilty, Okafor was denied bail, and the case was adjourned to February 28, 2024. She surrendered to the Anambra Police Command following pressure from the Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye.
Meanwhile, the victim, Happiness Nwafor, has been discharged from the hospital and appeared in court. Okafor’s counsel expressed dissatisfaction with the trial process, alleging trial by ordeal by the state Ministry of Women and Social Welfare.
In response, Anambra State Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, Ify Obinabo, expressed confidence in the court’s ability to deliver justice. She also announced plans for a media sensitization program to educate the public on child abuse prevention.
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