ANAMBRA, Nigeria – In a striking case of domestic abuse, the Anambra State Government of Nigeria has arrested Chinyere Ifesinachi, a nursing mother, for alleged brutalization of her househelp.
The arrest was conducted in the city of Nnewi following orders by Hon. Ify Obinabo, the Anambra State Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare.
The abuse came to light when the househelp, an 8-year-old girl named Idinmachukwu, was seen running an errand with noticeable injuries.
She had swollen eyes and visible scars covering her body. A concerned resident recorded a video of the visibly distressed girl, which rapidly circulated online, sparking public outrage and demands for justice.
In the video, Idinmachukwu, who is also the niece of Mrs. Ifesinachi, revealed her painful ordeal. “I don’t go to school. I’ve been subjected to inhuman treatment for every action of mine,” she said.
The child recounted being brutalized for accidentally dropping one of her caretaker’s infant twins, whom she had been assigned to look after.
Chidinma Ikeanyionwu, a media aide to Commissioner Obinabo, on Friday, May 12, 2023, conveyed that upon her arrest, Mrs. Ifesinachi attributed her appalling actions to demonic influence.
The 25-year-old mother of two pleaded for leniency, promising that she would never repeat such behavior.
The victim was placed in her aunt’s care earlier this year in March, to assist with chores and caring for the twins.
According to reports, Mrs. Ifesinachi confessed to struggling with household duties after the birth of her children.
Commissioner Obinabo confirmed that Mrs. Ifesinachi has been handed over to the police for further investigation and will be charged in court.
“This case is a tragic reminder of the violence that can occur behind closed doors, even within families,” Obinabo stated.
“Our goal is to ensure that justice is served and that steps are taken to prevent such incidents in the future.”
The case has brought to light the urgent need for stricter laws and enforcement around child labor and abuse in Nigeria, as the country continues to grapple with these deeply rooted societal issues.
