The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Dutse branch, has called for urgent justice and full compliance with a court order in the case involving a Department of State Services (DSS) officer, Ifeanyi Onyewuenyi, accused of abducting, raping, and allegedly forcing a 16‑year‑old Muslim girl, Miss Walida Abdullahi, to convert to Christianity and marry him.
The association made its position known in a statement on Saturday as legal processes continue in the matter.
According to the NBA statement signed by the branch’s Publicity Secretary, A.B. Umar, the circumstances surrounding the case represent “an appalling level of barbarism and a crass display of impunity,” highlighting serious concerns over alleged abuses of office.
The controversy began after the victim’s family reported her missing more than two years ago when she was 16, and only recently learned of her whereabouts and the alleged offences.
On January 7, 2026, a Magistrate Court in Jigawa State issued a court order directing law enforcement authorities to arrest and investigate Onyewuenyi on allegations including abduction, unlawful detention, rape of a minor, abuse of office, forced conversion and marriage.
The NBA has emphasised its expectation of full compliance with the order as proceedings unfold.
The association’s statement said Walida had been missing since she was 16 and that the prolonged uncertainty and trauma contributed to the death of her mother.
It further noted that Onyewuenyi allegedly contacted the victim’s father, Abdulhadi Ibrahim, in January 2026, revealing that the girl had been in his custody for several years and directing the family to Abuja for their marriage.
“We demand a swift, transparent, thorough, and impartial investigation to ascertain the culpability of the suspect and any other persons who may be complicit in this egregious case,” the NBA said, underscoring the need for accountability and justice for the victim and her family.
The NBA also pledged to monitor developments and urged the public to “remain calm and law‑abiding” as the judicial and investigative processes continue.
It commended authorities for reported steps taken so far, including Onyewuenyi’s arrest by the DSS, and emphasised the importance of ensuring justice is both done and seen to be done for Miss Abdullahi.
The allegations have drawn attention to issues of child protection, abuse of office and religious freedom, with wider implications for confidence in public institutions and the rule of law. The court order followed a January 4, 2026, petition filed by Abuja‑based law firm Gamji Lawchain on behalf of Walida’s family.
Authorities have confirmed the officer’s arrest and ongoing investigation, and the NBA’s intervention signals continued legal scrutiny of the case as it progresses through the judicial system.
