UMUAHIA, Nigeria — The Abia State Police Command has arrested a 35-year-old woman, Nwoko Gift, for allegedly attempting to kill her 12-year-old niece, Ebo Chimamanda, during an assault at their residence in Umuahia.
The arrest followed the circulation of a disturbing video on social media showing the suspect allegedly attacking the child with a kitchen knife, prompting swift intervention by police operatives.
Viral video sparks police action
The footage, which quickly spread across social media platforms, showed the woman kneeling over the young girl as she lay face-down on a concrete floor while holding a kitchen knife.
In the video, the child could be heard crying and repeatedly pleading, “Aunty, no,” as she struggled beneath the suspect.
A man eventually intervened, pulling the woman away from the girl while other bystanders gathered at the scene.
Following the video’s circulation, officers attached to the World Bank Divisional Police Headquarters in Umuahia launched an operation based on intelligence received, rescuing the victim and taking the suspect into custody.
Police reveal alleged motive
In a statement issued on Monday, the Police Public Relations Officer of the command, DSP Maureen Chinaka, said preliminary investigations indicated that the incident occurred on July 5, 2026, at IBB Housing Estate, Umuahia.
According to the police, the suspect allegedly attacked the girl because she failed to spread clothes she had been instructed to dry before the woman left for the market.
Investigators identified the suspect as a native of Ehimembano, Imo State, who resides in Umuahia with the victim.
Alleged history of abuse
Police said investigations further revealed that the child had allegedly been subjected to repeated physical abuse and threats before the latest incident.
According to the command, evidence gathered so far suggests the suspect had allegedly beaten the girl on several occasions and repeatedly threatened to kill her.
During the operation, officers recovered the kitchen knife allegedly used in the attack as evidence.
Case transferred to SCID
The police confirmed that the matter has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation.
Authorities said the suspect is expected to face prosecution on allegations of attempted murder after investigations are completed.
The command noted that detectives are continuing to gather evidence and obtain statements from witnesses connected to the case.
Police condemn child abuse
The Abia State Police Command condemned the alleged assault, describing it as unacceptable regardless of the circumstances.
The command urged members of the public to report cases of child abuse, domestic violence and other forms of violence to the nearest police station, stressing that offenders would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Police also encouraged residents to remain vigilant and promptly provide information that could help prevent similar incidents and protect vulnerable members of society.
