Dorothy Njemanze Foundation has called for the immediate suspension of Kogi State Commissioner for Water Resources, Abdulmumuni Danga
until the investigation surrounding allegations of rape and battery is completed.
The commissioner allegedly striped, beat up and raped one Miss Elizabeth Oyeniyi after kidnapping her from Okene on the 29th of March 2020.
According to to the non-governmental organization, Danga’s suspension will enable a level playing ground for investigation.
This was contained in a press statement issued on Friday by the Women’s Rights Activists led by Dorothy Njemanze of Dorothy Njemanze Foundation with support from Action Aid Nigeria and Global Affairs Canada.
She stated that the lady in question has had to flee for her life and deserves protection pending the outcome of investigations.
“She and her family are being threatened, they have been receiving incessant threatening calls. She is also currently undergoing medical procedures because of the extent of her injuries.”
Njemanze also disclosed that the same Mr. Danga has also been accused of assaulting another woman and her children a week before this current incident is alleged to have taken place, tearing her clothes, and assaulting the woman and her kids with pepper spray.
“We are dismayed by the recent news of alleged physical and psychological violence perpetrated by the Kogi State Commissioner for Water Resources, Abdulmumuni Danga, against Elizabeth for criticizing him on Social Media.
“This is especially appalling because the accused commissioner allegedly abducted her, physically assaulted her, stripped her naked and took a video recording of her with the threat that the video would be released if she speaks about the incident. As if that was not enough, her phone was destroyed to avoid documentation of evidence, and she was forced to retract her statement and apologize under duress.
“This is the height of abuse of power and outright violation of rights. If left unaddressed, such heinous act by power holders against women will increase thereby leaving women and girls more vulnerable than ever.
“This situation cannot go unaddressed. We are calling on the Kogi state government to demonstrate its commitment to addressing gender-based violence and redeem itself now.
“We are sure that his Excellency, Governor Yahaya Bello, is against the abuse of power in office, and an ardent advocate of the fundamental rights of Nigerian citizens, thus, he will not allow this matter be swept under the carpet.
“We are calling on the Kogi state government to demonstrate its commitment to addressing gender-based violence and redeem itself now by immediately suspending Mr. Danga as a Commissioner until the investigation is completed, this will enable a level playing ground for investigation.
“The perpetrator and accomplices of the assault on Elizabeth must be identified and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
“The life and full protection of the survivor, her family and other persons involved in the case, including their property must be guaranteed,” the statement said.
