Amnesty International Nigeria has called on Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, to order the immediate reinstatement of a rape case involving a four-year-old girl, following the state government’s decision to discontinue the prosecution.
The human rights organisation described the withdrawal of the case, which was before a court in Jos, as a miscarriage of justice and a setback for efforts to protect survivors of sexual violence, particularly children.
Amnesty International urged the governor to intervene to ensure that the circumstances surrounding the discontinuation are addressed and that justice is pursued for the child.
The organisation’s appeal highlights concerns about accountability in cases of sexual violence against minors and the need for authorities to ensure that alleged perpetrators are brought to justice through due process.
It also underscores the importance of protecting the rights and welfare of child survivors, whose vulnerability requires sensitive handling of investigations and judicial proceedings.
Amnesty International maintained that the discontinuation of the case should not be allowed to undermine the pursuit of justice for the four-year-old victim.
The organisation called on the Plateau State Government to take urgent steps to facilitate the resumption of proceedings, while ensuring that the child’s privacy, dignity and safety are protected throughout the process.
The circumstances surrounding the government’s decision to withdraw the case, including its stated reasons and whether any further legal steps are being considered, were not provided in the information available.
The Plateau State Government’s response to Amnesty International’s demand was also not included.
The development has renewed attention on the responsibility of state authorities to ensure effective prosecution of sexual offences, protect children from abuse and uphold the rule of law.
