A 17-year-old boy, Samuel Onyeme, was allegedly beaten and locked inside a dog cage after visiting his female classmate’s home in Asaba, Delta State, on Sunday evening. The incident has sparked outrage and calls for justice as the boy sustained severe injuries, including psychological trauma.
According to eyewitnesses, the attack occurred around 6 p.m. when Samuel visited the home of his female classmate after receiving an invitation. What started as a friendly visit quickly escalated when the classmate’s father and two brothers reportedly assaulted Samuel.
Recounting the traumatic experience, Samuel’s mother, Mrs. Onyeme, described the brutal attack. She said, “My son, Samuel, a Senior Secondary student, went to his classmate’s house. While they were talking outside, her father and two brothers suddenly attacked him.” She continued, “They assaulted him on the street, dragged him into their compound, and beat him severely with wooden planks before locking him in a dog cage.”
The situation took a disturbing turn when the family was further victimized. Mrs. Onyeme explained that the perpetrators confiscated her son’s mobile phone and lured her to their house under false pretenses, only to deny her access to Samuel for two hours. “When I arrived, they wouldn’t let me see my son,” she said. “I was kept waiting for two hours while they kept him locked up.”
As the situation unfolded, Samuel’s elder brother, Ben, sought help from a family friend who alerted a human rights organization. The organization quickly mobilized police officers, who arrived at the scene around 10 p.m. and rescued Samuel from the dog cage.
Human rights activist Victor Ojei, who was instrumental in securing Samuel’s release, condemned the actions of the family. Describing the attack as “barbaric and inhumane,” Ojei expressed his outrage at the violent treatment Samuel endured. “No one should be subjected to such brutality. This is a clear violation of human rights and an act of cruelty.”
A petition calling for the immediate investigation and prosecution of the assailants has been submitted to the Delta State Commissioner of Police. The petition, also sent to the Attorney General and the National Human Rights Commission, demands action against the girl’s father and brothers for unlawful detention, assault, and attempted murder, in accordance with Nigerian criminal law and the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act.
The petition also highlights further allegations, including threats to burn Samuel alive, which could lead to charges of attempted murder under Section 320 of the Criminal Code Act.
Samuel is currently receiving medical treatment at a hospital in Asaba for the physical injuries sustained during the assault. His family also expressed concern about the psychological toll the traumatic event has taken on him.
As investigations continue, the community is calling for swift justice and an end to such violent acts. This case has brought attention to the ongoing issue of abuse and violence within families, particularly when it involves young people. Human rights groups are urging the authorities to ensure the perpetrators are held accountable for their actions.
