A 42-year-old man in Ghana’s Upper West Region has been handed a 10-year prison sentence after being found guilty of defiling a seven-year-old boy — a chilling reminder that child sexual abuse remains a serious threat across West Africa.
The Upper West Regional Police Command in Ghana successfully secured the conviction and sentencing of one Elyasu Kunateh, following a thorough investigation that left no room for doubt about his guilt.
What Happened?
According to reports, Kunateh, aged 42, committed the horrific act against a young boy who was just seven years old — a child who should have been playing freely without fear, not enduring such a traumatic violation of his innocence.
The Regional Police Command pursued the case diligently, ensuring that the matter was properly prosecuted and that justice was served for the young victim and his family.
Justice Served — But the Fight Continues
The court handed down a 10-year custodial sentence to Kunateh, a verdict that sends a clear message: no one is above the law when it comes to protecting children.
This case is a sobering wake-up call for communities across Nigeria and the broader West African region. Too often, cases of child sexual abuse are swept under the carpet due to shame, family pressure, or the mistaken belief that such matters should be “settled quietly.” But silence only protects the abuser — never the child.
What This Means for Us in Nigeria
Here in Nigeria, child defilement remains a deeply troubling reality. According to UNICEF, one in four girls and one in ten boys* in Nigeria experience sexual violence before the age of 18. Despite the **Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act** and the *Child Rights Act, many cases still go unreported and unprosecuted.
The Ghanaian police and judiciary deserve commendation for seeing this case through to conviction. It is the kind of decisive action our own institutions must consistently demonstrate.
Every child deserves safety, dignity, and protection — full stop.
How You Can Help Protect Children
– Speak up if you suspect a child is being abused
– Report* to the nearest police station or call the *Nigeria Child Helpline: 0800-CHILD-HELP (0800-24453-4357)
– Educate children about body autonomy and safe touch
– Do not pressure victims or families to stay silent for the sake of “family honour”
> “The standard you walk past is the standard you accept.” — If we ignore child abuse in our communities, we are part of the problem.
Child sexual abuse is a crime. If you know something, say something.
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