An Owerri Chief Magistrate Court, Imo State on Thursday ordered the remand of Mrs. Juliet Igwe at the Owerri Correctional Centre over allegations of grievous harm and attempted murder involving a five-year-old girl, Onyinyechi.
The charge stems from an incident alleged to have occurred on November 25, during which the minor reportedly sustained severe physical injuries.
Police prosecutors informed the court that the offence is punishable by life imprisonment, prompting Magistrate Adikibe to rule that the court lacked jurisdiction to hear the matter.
In line with this, she ordered that the suspect be remanded in prison custody and directed that the case file be transferred to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for legal advice.
According to information presented to the court, the child was allegedly left to wander in critical condition for several days before she was rescued.
The case drew public attention following the intervention of a human rights organization, Stand For Humanity Foundation, which reportedly discovered the child in a dire state and facilitated her rescue.
The group also assisted in the arrest of the suspect on December 4.
Led by activist journalist Chidiebube Okeoma, the foundation ensured the immediate admission of Onyinyechi to the Imo State University Medical Centre, Owerri, where she is currently receiving medical treatment. The organization has continued to advocate for the child’s recovery and for accountability in the case.
Concerned members of the public and human rights advocates are expected to closely monitor the proceedings as the matter progresses. Supporters have also been encouraged to share awareness materials on social media to draw attention to the case and support calls for justice and adequate medical care for the child.
Speaking briefly to journalists after the court session, Mrs. Igwe expressed regret over the incident.
“I didn’t know that this child would be in such pains. I didn’t know. It is only God that will judge me,” she said. “I don’t know what came over me. I have been crying and praying for God to heal Onyinyechi.”
The case has continued to spark outrage and renewed calls for stronger protection of children and swift justice for victims of abuse.
