Teen pregnancy case sparks investigation as grandfather faces incest allegations

Authorities in Niger State are investigating a disturbing case of alleged incest involving a 16-year-old girl from Lufari community in Mariga Local Government Area, where a 64-year-old man, identified as Musa Gado, is accused of impregnating his granddaughter.

The case, which only came to light months after the pregnancy began, has since developed into a full criminal investigation led by the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), where the suspect is

According to officials, the matter was first formally reported on October 5, 2025, by the victim’s father, Lawali Na’ababa, in collaboration with a community leader. At the time of reporting, the teenager was already about six months pregnant.

The Director General of the Niger State Child Rights Agency, Barrister Ulmulkatum Mohammed, said the situation initially appeared to be a private family matter before evidence and allegations prompted full-scale intervention.

She confirmed that the girl was immediately placed under protective custody once authorities were alerted.

Allegations of repeated abuse

In a recorded statement obtained by the agency, the victim alleged repeated incidents involving her grandfather, describing a pattern of coercion under the guise of sending her on errands.

She claimed she was offered money to buy food and instructed not to disclose the incidents, adding that the abuse continued over time.

Officials said the account suggests multiple occurrences, though the exact number could not be independently verified.

The agency also disclosed allegations that the victim was pressured and, at a point, allegedly assaulted in an attempt to make her change her statement.

Pregnancy complications and birth

Authorities confirmed that efforts were made to terminate the pregnancy after it became known, including treatment at a clinic in Konan Mariga. The attempt was unsuccessful.

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The teenager later underwent a cesarean section and delivered a baby boy in December 2025. Officials say she has since shown signs of psychological distress and is receiving ongoing medical and emotional support.

DNA confirmation and legal dispute

A DNA test conducted in Gwagwalada reportedly returned a 99.99 percent probability of paternity. The test was funded by the suspect at a cost of approximately ₦500,000 and was reportedly opened in the presence of both parties.

Despite the result, Musa Gado has denied the allegations and is expected to challenge the findings in court. As of the time of reporting, no formal prosecution has been concluded.

Conflicting statements and investigation findings

The Child Rights Agency said the suspect initially admitted to the allegations during interrogation but later retracted his confession.

Officials also stated that the victim’s testimony formed a critical part of the investigation file, alongside medical and forensic documentation.

Barrister Mohammed emphasized that the agency remains focused on safeguarding the child while ensuring due process is followed, noting that the institution has faced external pressure since the case became public.

“Our focus is the protection of the child and ensuring that justice is served,” she said.

Legal and rights perspectives

Legal experts and advocacy groups have described the allegations as extremely serious under Nigerian law.

Barrister Bolanle Jibogun, State Coordinator of the Legal Aid Council and Chairperson of FIDA, said the DNA result strengthens the case and stressed that the matter must proceed through the justice system.

A gender studies scholar at Newgate University, Minna, Dr. Hope Ajayi, said the case reflects abuse within family power structures and highlighted the long-term psychological impact on survivors, especially minors.

Civil society actors also pointed to delays in reporting as a recurring challenge in addressing sexual and gender-based violence, noting that many cases only surface when pregnancy becomes visible.

Broader concerns over child protection

The case has reignited concerns about sexual and gender-based violence in Nigeria. Between 2020 and 2023, official records documented over 27,000 reported cases nationwide, though experts believe many more go unreported.

UNICEF and rights organizations continue to warn that most child abuse cases occur within familiar environments, often involving family members or trusted individuals.

Ongoing case

As investigations continue, authorities say the matter remains under active review by law enforcement and child protection agencies. The outcome will ultimately be determined by the courts, as prosecutors weigh forensic evidence, witness testimony, and conflicting accounts.

For now, officials say their priority remains the welfare of the child and ensuring she receives sustained care following a case that has deeply affected both the family and the wider community.