A Rivers State High Court sitting in Port Harcourt has convicted and sentenced a 25-year-old man, Jerry Njoku, to seven years in prison with hard labour for defiling a 10-year-old girl.

The trial judge, Rita Oguguo, also ordered the convict to pay the sum of N5 million in compensation to the victim’s family to support the child’s welfare.

Speaking after the ruling, Chief State Counsel in the Rivers State Ministry of Justice, Precious Ordu, described the ruling as a welcome development, saying it reflected the seriousness of the offence and the court’s commitment to protecting vulnerable members of society.

Ordu noted that the victim suffered significant physical and emotional trauma, making the court’s intervention both necessary and appropriate. He added that the sentence would serve as a deterrent to would-be offenders, as crimes against children carry grave consequences.

“The judgment sends a clear signal that those who prey on minors will be held accountable,” he stated. “It is a welcome development, not only for the victim and her family but also for society, because it reinforces the principle that justice will prevail.”

Ordu added that the court’s N5 million compensation would contribute to the child’s care and rehabilitation.