C’River guard arrested over sexual assault of eight-year-old

The Cross River State Police Command has arrested a 37-year-old security guard, Ndifreke Godwin, for allegedly sexually assaulting an eight-year-old girl in Calabar.

In a statement by the command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, made available to journalists on Sunday in Calabar, the command confirmed the incident, which occurred along Tinapa Road in Calabar, Cross River State.

The statement read, “The Cross River State Police Command has arrested a 37-year-old male security guard, identified as Ndifreke Godwin, in connection with the alleged sexual assault of an eight-year-old girl along Tinapa Road, Calabar.”

Eitokpah said preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect allegedly lured the minor to his residence with a promise of giving her money, where he allegedly assaulted her.

He added that the case was reported to the police on Friday, August 29, 2026, by the victim’s mother.

“The incident was reported to the police on 29 August 2026 by the victim’s mother, following which the suspect was promptly arrested. Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect allegedly lured the minor to his residence under the pretext of giving her money, where he allegedly sexually assaulted her,” part of the statement read.

According to him, police operatives responded swiftly, arrested the suspect and transferred the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department for a “discreet and comprehensive investigation.”

He further stated that the victim had been issued a medical form for necessary medical examination and treatment, stressing that a thorough investigation was ongoing.

The police spokesperson assured residents that due process would be followed, emphasising that appropriate legal action would be taken based on the findings of the investigation.

“The command assures the public that the suspect will be accorded due process and that appropriate legal action will be taken based on the outcome of the investigation,” the statement read.

The police also urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity involving minors to security agencies.