The Adamawa state police have arrested a 22-year-old man, Luka James, for allegedly raping a 15-year-old girl in Gwalantabal village, Song Local Government Area. The victim, who was on her way to school at the time of the attack, was abducted and assaulted in a nearby bush, leaving her unconscious and in critical condition.
The Adamawa State Police Public Relations Officer, Suleiman Ngurore, confirmed the arrest in a statement seen by FRONTPAGE on Sunday. According to the statement, the suspect conspired with an accomplice, Emmanuel, who is currently on the run, to carry out the heinous act.
A Harrowing Ordeal: The Victim’s Story
The incident occurred on January 31, 2025, when the victim was walking to school. Luka James and his accomplice allegedly ambushed her, dragged her into a nearby bush, and raped her. The victim was later found unconscious at the scene and was rushed to the hospital, where she is currently receiving medical treatment.
“The victim was on her way to school when the suspect conspired with one Emmanuel, who is currently on the run, abducted her into a nearby bush, and had unlawful carnal knowledge of her,” the police statement read.
The arrest of Luka James followed a report made by Yohanna Begie, a resident of Nkafa village, who alerted the police to the incident. The suspect was apprehended in the Michicka area of the state, while efforts are ongoing to track down his accomplice, Emmanuel.
Police Commissioner Vows to Ensure Justice
The Commissioner of Police in Adamawa State, Damkombo Morris, has expressed deep concern over the incident and has directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Criminal Investigation to take over the case. The CP emphasized the importance of ensuring that justice is served and that the perpetrators are held accountable for their actions.
“The CP advised members of the public, especially parents, to develop a habit of monitoring their children and provide timely information to the police,” the statement added.
The police have also called on the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies. The arrest of Luka James is seen as a step in the right direction, but the case has highlighted the need for stronger measures to protect vulnerable individuals, particularly young girls, from sexual violence.
A Growing Concern: Sexual Violence in Nigeria
The incident in Adamawa State is not an isolated case. Sexual violence remains a pervasive issue in Nigeria, with many victims suffering in silence due to fear of stigma or lack of access to justice. According to recent reports, cases of rape and sexual assault have been on the rise, prompting calls for stricter laws and better enforcement mechanisms.
In January 2025, the police command in Rivers State confirmed the arrest of a couple for allegedly raping and beating a 13-year-old girl in their residence in Port Harcourt. The suspects were transferred to the State Criminal Investigations and Intelligence Department for further investigation and possible prosecution.
These cases underscore the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to addressing sexual violence, including public awareness campaigns, improved access to justice for victims, and stronger support systems for survivors.
The Role of Community and Law Enforcement
The arrest of Luka James has brought attention to the critical role that communities and law enforcement agencies play in combating sexual violence. By working together, they can create a safer environment for all individuals, particularly women and children who are often the most vulnerable.
The police have urged parents and guardians to be more vigilant and to educate their children about personal safety. They have also emphasized the importance of reporting incidents of sexual violence promptly to ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice.
A Call for Action: Protecting the Vulnerable
The tragic incident in Adamawa State serves as a stark reminder of the need for collective action to protect vulnerable individuals from sexual violence. It is not enough to rely solely on law enforcement; communities, policymakers, and civil society organizations must all play a role in addressing the root causes of this issue.
Advocates have called for increased funding for support services for survivors of sexual violence, including counseling, medical care, and legal assistance. They have also urged the government to prioritize the implementation of laws that protect victims and punish offenders.
Conclusion: A Step Toward Justice
The arrest of Luka James is a significant step toward ensuring justice for the 15-year-old victim and her family. However, it is also a reminder of the work that remains to be done to address the broader issue of sexual violence in Nigeria.
As the investigation continues, the case has sparked a national conversation about the need for stronger measures to protect vulnerable individuals and hold perpetrators accountable. By working together, we can create a society where everyone, regardless of age or gender, can live free from the fear of violence and abuse.
