In a distressing case of alleged child abuse, a 35-year-old lawyer, Adachukwu Okafor, has pleaded not guilty to charges brought against her by the Anambra State Government. The case is being heard at the Children, Sexual and Gender-based Violence Court in Awka. The allegations involve severe physical abuse of an 11-year-old girl, Happiness Nwafor, who was working as Okafor’s housemaid.

Adachukwu Okafor faces four serious charges. She is accused of intentionally inflicting physical injuries on Happiness Nwafor using a cane, a hot electric iron, and a hot kitchen knife. These acts are violations of section 4(1) of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition and Protection (VAPP) Law of 2017.

In addition to the physical abuse, Okafor is also charged with causing grievous harm, a crime under section 290 of the Criminal Code of Anambra State, 1991. This charge underscores the severity of the injuries allegedly inflicted on the young girl.

Furthermore, Okafor is accused of depriving Miss Nwafor of her liberty by detaining her in a toilet without food and water and tying her hands, legs, and mouth with clothes. This inhumane treatment is a violation of section 12(1) of the VAPP Law 2017.

The legal proceedings are being handled by top officials from the Anambra State Government. The prosecution team includes the Anambra State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Professor Sylvia Ifemeje, Principal State Counsel Jerry Emebie, and Senior State Counsel Vivian Anyaene. Barrister Chijioke Nwankwo is representing Adachukwu Okafor in the defense.

During the initial court hearing, Okafor pleaded not guilty to all charges. Justice Peace Otti, the presiding judge, listened to the arguments from both the prosecution and defense before adjourning the case. The hearing and ruling on Okafor’s bail application are scheduled for July 30.