In a bizarre revelation that has left Ugborikoko Division of the Nigeria Police Force in Uwvie Local Government Area of Delta State in disbelief, a father, Edward Odega, has been arrested for alleged sexual abuse of his three daughters over a period of seven years.
The suspect, an indigene of Issele-Mkpitime, Aniocha North LGA of the state, allegedly started defiling his first daughter who is now 24, at age 12 when she was in Primary 6.
The victims, aged 13, 15, and 24, reportedly suffered in silence until one of them found the courage to speak out.
Speaking on the incident, the unnamed 24-year-old lady said: “When I was in Primary Six, then 12 years, I was shy and afraid.
“I was thinking it was an abomination to say that kind of thing outside to people hence I kept quiet, suffering in silence.”
The abuse was said to have come to light during a school enlightenment outreach conducted by CSP Temi Agbede Zuokumor, Divisional Police Officer of Ugborikoko Division, aimed at sensitising students on child safety and reporting abuse.
One of the children, moved by the session, disclosed the years of torment she and her sisters had endured at the hands of their father.
Following the revelation, the police swiftly intervened, leading to the arrest of the father (Odega).
Authorities are now providing the children with medical and psychological support while investigations continue.
CSP Zuokumor described the child’s bravery as “exceptional,” noting that the outreach programme played a critical role in giving her the courage to come forward and exposed her father’s atrocities.
She emphasised that such community and school initiatives are essential in breaking the silence around child abuse and ensuring that victims know they are not alone.
The suspect confessed to the defilement of his three daughters during an interview with the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Edafe Bright.
When the Command’s spokesman asked him whether he was telling the truth based on revelations by his daughters, Odega said: “Yes, you are telling the truth sir”.
When asked how long he had been sleeping with his daughters, he said: “For seven years now. I don’t really know; that is just an evil act.”
Edafe said the suspect would remain in police custody as the investigation continues.
Meanwhile, the police have urged parents, guardians, and community members to remain vigilant and report any signs of abuse, adding that no form of sexual exploitation would be tolerated.
The authorities said this heartbreaking case serves as a stark reminder of the need for continued awareness, vigilance, and proactive measures to protect vulnerable children.
