The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court, presided over by Justice M. Osho Adebiyi, has sentenced 19-year-old teacher Abdullahi Abbass to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole for the rape and sodomy of a 9-year-old male pupil.
This verdict, confirmed by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) in a statement over the weekend, marks a significant milestone in the agency’s ongoing battle against sexual violence.
On March 19, 2025, the incident occurred after school hours when Abbass, the victim’s class teacher, instructed another student to summon the victim to his residence. Once there, he lured the victim into his home and forcibly raped him.
Despite threats from Abbass, the victim bravely reported the abuse to his mother, prompting an investigation and subsequent arrest by the police. The case was later handed over to NAPTIP for further proceedings.
Abbass faced two counts of rape and sexual abuse and was convicted on October 29, 2025. The court’s ruling reflects the severe penalties outlined under Section 2 of the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, 2015.
Following the landmark judgment, the head of NAPTIP commended the court’s decision and expressed gratitude for the support of all partners involved in the prosecution of the case, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in securing justice for victims of sexual violence.
“This is a landmark judgment that carries the commensurable punishment for the offender. This will serve as a deterrent, and his name shall feature prominently in our Sex Offenders Register.
“I wish to say that the speedy investigation and arraignment of the convict was a testimony to our renewed commitment and determination to tackle the incidences of domestic violence, rape, and other forms of sexual abuse in the country.”
NAPTIP hailed the judgment as a crucial step in protecting children and ensuring justice for survivors of sexual violence.
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