The trial of Nneka Anumudu, who is facing charges related to the abuse of her five-year-old foster child, was delayed on Monday due to the absence of a key prosecution witness at a Chief Magistrates’ Court.
Anumudu is accused of cruelty to a child and voluntarily causing grievous harm without provocation.
During the court session, Prosecution Counsel Okokon Mbruk informed the court that the complainant, Chukwuma Esther—who is also the defendant’s sister-in-law—was unwell and unable to attend the proceedings. He requested a new date for the continuation of the trial.
Presiding Magistrate Hafsat Amiru adjourned the case to November 12 for further hearing.
According to the prosecution, the matter was initially reported at the Mabushi Divisional Police Headquarters before being transferred to the State Command for further investigation.
It was alleged that Anumudu, who is married to the uncle of the minor, was responsible for the child’s care following the death of the girl’s biological mother. However, instead of providing support, the defendant allegedly subjected the child to severe physical abuse and, in an appalling act, forced her to eat human faeces.
The charges brought against Anumudu fall under Sections 238 and 247 of the Penal Code. She has entered a plea of not guilty.