Kogi chief allegedly impregnates teen, damages womb

In December 2023, the family of a teenage girl living in Lagos, Nigeria, found themselves caught up in a deeply distressing situation. The girl, whose name has been withheld, was allegedly sexually assaulted by Muhammed Salifu, the head of the Igala Community in Lagos, who is 58 years old. The girl's mother, Mrs. Elizabeth Yakubu, recounted how the family first met Salifu when her husband was part of the same town union association.

Initially, Salifu offered to help the teenager, who had aspirations to learn tailoring, by arranging an apprenticeship and paying for it. However, the situation took a dark turn in December of that year when Salifu allegedly brought the girl to his hotel room in Ojota, Lagos, where he allegedly forced himself on her. Despite threats to harm the girl if she reported the incident, she eventually disclosed the assault to her mother.

Shortly after, the girl was found to be pregnant. The family confronted Salifu, who initially denied the allegations and suggested they go to a doctor together at his hospital. However, when the doctor confirmed the pregnancy, Salifu admitted his responsibility. In an attempt to avoid the pregnancy, Salifu offered to pay N50,000 for an abortion, but the family refused, choosing to support their daughter through the pregnancy.

Tragically, the baby was born prematurely and died seven days after the caesarean section. The girl's health also deteriorated, leading to her passing away. The family is now seeking justice for the alleged sexual assault and the resulting pregnancy.