Police probe alleged wider network in Anambra child exploitation case

The Anambra State Police Command is investigating allegations of child sexual exploitation following the arrest of 36-year-old Anulika Onyeanusia in Onitsha, after a disturbing video allegedly showing her abusing her underage daughter surfaced online.

The case has also generated unverified claims on social media that the suspect allegedly mentioned other women involved in similar activities in exchange for financial rewards.

However, the claim that Anambra First Lady, Dr Nonye Soludo, offered the suspect a pardon in return for the names of other alleged perpetrators has not been confirmed by the police, the state government or credible independent reporting.

According to the police, four children, aged two, three, six and nine, were rescued during the operation at the suspect’s residence. Sex toys and other items said to be relevant to the investigation were also recovered.

Reports of the suspect’s interrogation indicate that she allegedly told investigators that she had produced and shared explicit material involving her daughter for money.

One report said she claimed to have received between $300 and $400 on some occasions, with the highest payment reportedly reaching $700.

She was also reported to have claimed that other Nigerian women were involved in similar activities, although available reports do not substantiate the social-media allegation that she identified approximately 20 women from Anambra.

First Lady demands thorough investigation

Reacting to the case, Nonye Soludo condemned the alleged abuse and exploitation of the child and called on the police to conduct a transparent and professional investigation.

She said the authorities should establish the full facts, identify anyone else who may have been involved and ensure that anyone found culpable faces the law.

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The First Lady also pledged to work with relevant government agencies to ensure that the rescued children receive medical, psychological, social and rehabilitation support.

Her intervention is consistent with previous public statements in which she has spoken against child abuse and urged parents and communities to protect vulnerable children.

In 2024, she warned against sending underage children out as domestic workers because of their vulnerability to abuse and exploitation.

Husband says he was unaware

The suspect’s husband, Ikechukwu Onyeanyusi, has said he was unaware of the alleged activities until a friend showed him the video involving his wife and their daughter.

Speaking in a video shared by the Anambra State Ministry of Women and Social Welfare, he described himself as shocked and disappointed by what he allegedly saw.

The police investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have yet to publicly establish whether other individuals are connected to the alleged offences.

The case has meanwhile renewed concerns about the exploitation of children through online platforms and the use of explicit content for financial gain. Child protection advocates and authorities are expected to scrutinise the circumstances surrounding the alleged abuse and determine whether any wider network exists.

Until the investigation is concluded, claims identifying other individuals or alleging that the First Lady offered immunity or a pardon should be treated as unverified.