The International Federation of Women Lawyers, (FIDA) Rivers State Branch, has rescued a teenage girl, Uchechi Ukoro, who was allegedly burnt with a hot knife by her guardian, Mrs Benedicta Ezenibe in Rumuokwuta, Port Harcourt.
The Publicity Secretary of FIDA Nigeria, Rivers State Branch, Rachel C. Princewill, who confirmed the incident in a statement on November 10, 2025 said the teenager disclosed that her guardian heated a kitchen knife and pressed it on parts of her body after accusing her of following boys.
According to Princewill, police have arrested the suspect and commenced an investigation into the incident.
“On Monday, 10th November 2025, FIDA Rivers received a distress call about Miss Uchechi Ukoro, a young girl severely burned by her guardian, Mrs. Benedicta Ezenibe,” the statement read.
“The Vice-Chairperson, Dr. Vivian Akunesiobike, and Mrs. Nneoma Adiele reported the case to Kala Police Station, and with police support, rescued the victim from No. 7 Wogboroma Street, Rumuokwuta.
“Uchechi disclosed that her guardian heated a kitchen knife and pressed it on her body, accusing her of “following boys,” and had also stopped her from going to school.
“The police have begun investigations, and the victim is now in a safe home.
“FIDA Rivers State Branch remains committed to following up on this matter until Miss Uchechi is safely reunited with her biological parents and justice is served.
“This incident is a painful reminder of the urgent need to strengthen child protection mechanisms and promote public awareness against all forms of abuse. No child deserves to suffer such cruelty.”
