Rita Enemuru, Reporting
A 37-year-old security guard, Ndifreke Godwin, has been arrested by the Cross River State Police Command over the alleged sexual assault of an eight-year-old girl in Calabar.
The arrest follows a complaint lodged by the girl’s mother after the alleged incident occurred along Tinapa Road in the state capital. The mother reportedly approached the police on August 29, 2026, seeking intervention over what had happened to her daughter.
Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, confirmed the arrest in a statement issued on Sunday. According to the police, preliminary findings indicate that the suspect allegedly lured the child to his residence after promising to give her money.
What was presented to the child as an offer of money reportedly ended in an incident that prompted her mother to seek police intervention. The Command stated that the suspect is accused of sexually assaulting the girl after she arrived at his residence.
The police have confirmed that the child’s medical needs have been addressed, with a medical form issued to facilitate her examination and treatment.
The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for what the Command described as a “discreet and comprehensive investigation.” This development places the alleged incident under formal police scrutiny as investigators work to establish the facts and determine the appropriate legal response.
The Command assured the public that the suspect would be subjected to due process, and that any further legal action would depend on the outcome of the investigation. Police also emphasised that the welfare of the child remains a priority.
Officials further stated that Godwin will remain an alleged suspect until the allegations against him are established by a court of competent jurisdiction.
