Police Arrest 64-Year-Old Man Over Alleged Abuse of Granddaughter in Niger

A 64-year-old man, Musa Gado, has been taken into police custody in Niger State over allegations of sexually abusing and impregnating his 16-year-old granddaughter.

The minor, who hails from Lufari village in Mariga Local Government Area, has since delivered a baby boy, now four months old.

The Director-General of the Niger State Child Rights Agency, Umulkhatum Mohammed, confirmed the development during an interview with journalists in Minna.

According to her, the case was reported to the agency on October 5, 2025, by the girl’s father, Lawali Na’ababa, alongside the village head, when the victim was already about six months pregnant.

She said the agency immediately intervened to protect the minor, placing her under care amid pressures for the pregnancy to be terminated. The girl later gave birth safely in December 2025.

Mohammed disclosed that a DNA test conducted weeks ago established paternity, with results indicating a 99.99 per cent match linking the suspect to the child.

“The result was presented to all parties involved, after which the suspect, who is still denying responsibility, was arrested and taken into custody by the State Criminal Investigation Department,” she said.

She added that the suspect remains in custody and would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.

Mohammed condemned the rising cases of child abuse in the state, reaffirming the agency’s commitment to protecting vulnerable children and ensuring justice is served.

Also reacting, a civil society group, Global Promoters for Community Initiatives, led by Project Director Olasukanmi Kalejaiye, pledged to ensure proper prosecution of the case.

The Niger State Police Command, through its spokesperson, Wasiu Abiodun, also confirmed the arrest, stating that the suspect would be arraigned after investigations are completed.