Taraba Govt Arrest Woman Who Attacked Teenager With Razor Over Alleged Affairs With Husband

Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, has ordered security agencies to arrest the woman who attacked a teenage girl with a razor, as well as her guardian.

The victim, identified as Miss Iwasen Terhemba, was allegedly attacked in Donga Local Government Area by a married woman, Mrs. Ramatu Abbas.

The incident reportedly followed claims that the girl was being repeatedly disturbed by Mrs. Abbas’ husband.

The victim, who lives with her guardian, Jemila Wanga, said the man had approached her several times, but she  turned him down because of her age and his marital status.

The situation worsened after the man’s wife became aware of the issue and began issuing verbal threats against the girl.

In an attempt to resolve the matter, the girl’s guardian reportedly approached Mrs. Abbas to explain that it was her husband who had been harassing the teenager and asked her to caution him.

However, the disagreement allegedly escalated when Mrs. Abbas went to the girl’s home and attacked her with a razor, causing injuries to her face.

The suspect was also said to have warned the victim and her guardian not to report the incident, insisting that it should be settled privately.

Speaking to The Punch on Thursday, the guardian appealed for help, saying she and her children had been threatened and feared for their safety.

Reacting to the development, Governor Kefas directed the arrest of anyone intimidating the victim or her guardian.

The directive was contained in a statement issued by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Child Development and signed by the commissioner, Mrs. Mary Sinjen.

The governor instructed relevant authorities to ensure justice is served and to strengthen protection for vulnerable persons across the state.

“His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Taraba State, Dr. Agbu Kefas, has directed that no effort be spared in securing justice for the victim and in strengthening protective measures for vulnerable persons across the state.

“Those intimidating both the victim and her guardian should be arrested and made to face the law,” the statement read.

The ministry reaffirmed the government’s zero-tolerance stance on violence, harassment, and intimidation, particularly against women and children, stressing that the safety of residents remains a top priority.

“The safety and wellbeing of every resident of Taraba State remains our top priority,” the statement added.

The ministry also condemned the attack on the 17-year-old girl, describing it as a serious violation of the rights and dignity of a minor.

“This reprehensible act will not be tolerated under any circumstances,” the Ministry stated.

According to the statement, the ministry has been fully briefed on the incident and is working closely with security agencies and other stakeholders.

The ministry revealed that the main suspect is currently in custody, while investigations continue.

“Any attempt to intimidate the victim or obstruct due process is itself a serious offence and will be addressed decisively,” it warned.

Mrs. Sinjen added that the ministry is working with the First Lady of Taraba State, Mrs. Agyim Kefas, to protect the rights of women and children and tackle gender-based violence.

She disclosed that the victim and her guardian are receiving support, including medical care, counselling, and legal assistance, while efforts are being made to ensure their safety.

Residents were urged to report cases of violence or threats to the appropriate authorities, with assurances that such reports would be handled promptly and confidentially.

Confirming the incident, the Taraba State Police Command spokesperson, Victor Mshelizah, said the case had been reported and investigations were ongoing.

“The victim was at the police station, and her statement has been taken. The case file is being compiled and will be charged to court,” he said.

Mshelizah added that attempts by some people to pressure the family into dropping the case would not stop the police from carrying out their duties, stressing that anyone found responsible would be held accountable.

“We are aware of pressures being mounted on the family to withdraw the case, but we will ensure that anyone found culpable is brought to justice”, he said.

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KanyiDaily also reported how a 46-year-old man, Abi Baragon, was arrested for allegedly stabbing his girlfriend, Orineme Ayanate, several times after she refused his marriage proposal in Rivers State.