Comrade Kennedy Iyere, humanitarian activist, Founder of the Youths Off The Street Initiative (YOTSI) and Convener of the 40Million Ballots Movement, has praised the First Lady of Taraba State, Mrs. Agyin Agbu Kefas, alongside the Commissioners for Women Affairs and Child Development, Mrs. Mary Sinjen, and Social Justice, Dr. Filister Musa, for their swift intervention following the brutal attack on a 17-year-old girl, Iwasen Terhemba.

The teenage girl was reportedly assaulted with a razor blade after alleged harassment by a married man—an incident Iyere described as “a crime of violence, abuse of power, and moral failure,” dismissing claims that the attack was rooted in jealousy or trivial disputes.

“No society that claims decency should allow adults to brutalise a child and walk freely. The girl-child is not a scapegoat for broken marriages, unchecked lust, or failed values. She deserves protection, not punishment,” he said.

Iyere commended the First Lady and the commissioners for facilitating the swift arrest and prosecution of the suspect, as well as for initiating rehabilitation efforts for the victim and her guardians, noting that the response reflected a strong commitment to justice and child protection.

“The full weight of the law must be applied without compromise or sentiment,” he stressed.

He further applauded the First Lady for providing urgent medical care for the victim and approving her relocation to Jalingo, the state capital, to ensure her safety and access to better opportunities. Iyere also acknowledged the provision of psychosocial support and long-term protection plans for the teenager.

Describing the award of a government scholarship to the victim as a powerful statement against violence and neglect, Iyere said the gesture demonstrated that the state would not abandon survivors of abuse.

“This case must set a precedent. We will not normalise violence. We will not excuse abuse. And we will not be silent while our girls bleed,” he added.

Iyere also commended Sarah Bulus for using her social media platforms to draw national attention to the attack and mobilise support for the victim.

He called on Governor Agbu Kefas to sustain and expand support for the girl, ensuring that all resources required for her full rehabilitation and reintegration are provided.

Expressing solidarity with the victim and her family, Iyere concluded: “How we protect our children is the true test of governance. Silence is complicity. Any system that fails to defend minors has failed its future.”