Nigerian Police Arrest Security Guard for Alleged Rape and Murder of 11-Year-Old in Suleja

Authorities in Niger State, Nigeria, have apprehended a 26-year-old security guard in connection with the brutal rape and murder of an 11-year-old girl. The suspect, identified as Godwin Dauda, was arrested following a police investigation into the disappearance and subsequent discovery of the remains of Christabel Albert in Suleja. The case has sparked significant outrage within the local community and underscores ongoing concerns regarding the safety of minors and the vetting of private security personnel.

According to reports from Arewa PUNCH, the incident took place in the Suleja area of Niger State, where Dauda was employed. It is alleged that the suspect committed the sexual assault and murder before attempting to conceal the evidence of his crime. In a disturbing detail revealed by investigators, the victim’s body was recovered from a well located within a church premises, where the suspect had purportedly dumped her after the fatal encounter. The recovery of the minor’s remains led to a swift manhunt for the guard, who had already fled the immediate vicinity to avoid capture.

Following the discovery, Dauda attempted to evade justice by fleeing to Kuje, a town within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). However, coordinated police efforts led to his successful apprehension and return to Niger State to face formal charges. The suspect is currently in custody as authorities finalize their investigation before proceeding to court. This tragic event has prompted calls for justice from child rights advocates and serves as a grim reminder of the critical importance of community vigilance and robust law enforcement in preventing predatory violence against children.