Barber Sentenced to 14 Years for Defiling Minor in Akwa Ibom

Ofonim Augustin Etim, a 32-year-old barber from Abama Village in Akara Local Government Area, was sentenced to 14 years in prison by Justice Augustin D. Odokwo at the Akwa Ibom State High Court in Ikot Ekpen.

The conviction stemmed from the defilement of a 12-year-old girl in Ikot Obong Otoro, Abak Local Government Area, which occurred on May 10, 2023. The prosecution, representing the Ministry of Justice, presented three witnesses, including an investigative police officer and a medical doctor, who provided documentary evidence and testimonies.

A gynecologist confirmed the victim had a 2cm deep vaginal wall laceration and multiple bruises, indicating forced penetration. The victim's elder sister testified that the girl had gone missing and was later found in the hospital receiving treatment.

The court found Etim guilty on the charge of defilement, affirming that the prosecution proved its case beyond a reasonable doubt.