Police arrest blind man, 59, for raping wife’s 10-year-old niece
Blind Man Arrested for Alleged Rape of Niece in Niger State
MINNA, Niger State — Julius Nyikwa, a 59-year-old blind man, has been arrested by the Niger State Police Command for the alleged rape of his 10-year-old niece in the Keteren-Gwari area of the state capital.
The incident reportedly occurred on February 16, 2026, when the child was lured into Nyikwa’s room, where he is accused of taking advantage of her. Sources indicate that Nyikwa’s wife is the victim’s aunt, and both families reside in the same compound.
Witnesses claim that Nyikwa had previously targeted the girl, using similar tactics to lure her into his room. On the day of the alleged assault, the child’s grandmother raised an alarm upon seeing her enter Nyikwa’s room, prompting neighbors to respond swiftly.
Authorities apprehended Nyikwa, who is said to have faced similar accusations in prior incidents.
SP Wasiu Abiodun, the Public Relations Officer for the Niger State Police Command, confirmed the details of the case and assured the public that justice would be pursued. “On February 16, 2026, at approximately 2 p.m., a report of rape was received at the ‘B’ Division in Minna, indicating that Julius Nyikwa sexually assaulted a minor from the same compound,” Abiodun stated.
He further noted that the case is currently being investigated by the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) and that Nyikwa will be charged in court soon.
Olasukanmi Kalejaiye, Project Director of Global Promoters for Community Initiatives, expressed dismay over the incident and emphasized the importance of ensuring that the suspect faces legal consequences.
