The Police Command in Bayelsa State has confirmed the arrest of a police inspector, Sunday Ideh, for allegedly assaulting his three children over accusations of witchcraft.
The command also disclosed that Ideh would undergo a mental health evaluation to determine his psychological state before prosecution.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations), Sanusi Mohammed, made this known in Yenagoa when members of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) paid a visit to the command.
The delegation was led by NBA Vice Chairman, Dr. Vivien Brisibe, and FIDA Chairperson, Dr. Boma Miebaiwho.
Mohammed described the incident as “deeply troubling,” adding that although the officer had maintained a clean record prior to the assault, the case would not be swept under the carpet.
He assured that the inspector would face full legal action once investigations were concluded.
Earlier, Dr. Brisibe condemned the assault, expressing dismay that a law enforcement officer could commit such a crime against his own children. She called for a speedy and thorough prosecution, stressing that Ideh’s action violated the law and must attract severe punishment.
“He should be charged with attempted murder, not with minor offences. What he did is unacceptable and must be treated as such,” she said.
Also speaking, Dr. Miebaiwho of FIDA expressed concern for the welfare of the victims, urging that the children should not be returned to their family. She said a non-governmental organisation had already offered to provide care and rehabilitation for them.
Similarly, a gender-based violence advocacy group, Do Foundation, called for the prompt prosecution of the officer and proper welfare support for the victims.
In a letter of appreciation signed by its Founder and Team Leader, Dr. Dise Ogbise Goddy-Harry, and addressed to the Bayelsa State Commissioner of Police, Francis Idu, the group commended the swift police response but urged that the case be pursued to ensure justice is served
