Niger police arrest blind suspect over rape of wife’s 10-year-old niece
A blind man in Niger has been arrested for allegedly raping his wife's 10-year-old niece after luring her into his room.
Julius Nyikwa, a 59-year-old blind man, has been arrested by police in Niger on charges of raping his wife's 10-year-old niece. The alleged incident took place on February 16, 2026, in Keteren-Gwari, Minna, where both the suspect and the victim lived in the same compound. Eyewitnesses reported that the young girl was repeatedly lured into Nyikwa's room, raising serious concerns about the nature of their relationship given their familial ties.
According to sources, the suspect's wife is the sister of the victim's mother, complicating the situation as they all reside in close quarters. The arrests stemmed from an incident where the girl was caught entering Nyikwa's room by her grandmother, prompting immediate alarm and intervention from neighbors. This situation highlights issues of trust and safety within family units, particularly regarding the protection of vulnerable children.
The case has drawn attention not only for its disturbing nature but also for the implications regarding the safety of children in close-knit communities. As the investigation continues, there is a pressing need to address preventive measures and support for victims of such crimes, particularly within family environments where trust may be violated.