Nigerian Army Captain Accused Of Sexually Abusing 13-Year-Old Step-Niece, Impregnating Her In Taraba

A serving Nigerian Army officer, Captain Etim Essien, has been accused of sexually abusing a 13-year-old girl in Taraba State and allegedly impregnating her while she was living under the care of his family.

The girl, according to a SaharaReporters investigation published on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, is deaf and non-speaking and was reportedly staying with Captain Essien and his wife, Blessing Essien.

The report stated that the girl was taken into the family’s care by Blessing Essien, who is said to be her older stepsister, with the stated intention of ensuring that she received proper care and education.

However, allegations later emerged that the minor had been sexually abused and became pregnant while living with the couple.

The case has reportedly attracted the attention of the Taraba State Ministry of Women Affairs and Child Development, the National Human Rights Commission and other relevant authorities.

According to the report, Blessing Essien was arrested in connection with the matter and subsequently arraigned before a Magistrate Court in Jalingo, where she was reportedly remanded in custody.

The Taraba State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Child Development, Mary Sinjen, confirmed to SaharaReporters that Blessing Essien remains in custody with the baby.

The commissioner explained that the baby remains with Blessing because she is breastfeeding the child, while the 13-year-old girl is currently staying with her parents under the monitoring of government authorities.

The state government has also formally written to the Nigerian Army concerning the allegations against Captain Essien. In a letter dated September 8, 2026, the Ministry requested that the Army take appropriate action while investigations continue.

The Ministry described the allegations as serious and said the alleged victim’s vulnerability made it necessary for relevant authorities to ensure that her rights, safety and welfare were protected.

However, Captain Essien, through his lawyer, denied that the account circulating about the matter accurately reflected what happened. His lawyer said the case is already before a competent court and that police investigations are ongoing.

The lawyer urged members of the public to avoid speculation and media trial, stressing that the legal and investigative processes should be allowed to establish the facts of the case.

Street News Reporters understands that the allegations remain subject to investigation and judicial proceedings, and no final determination of criminal responsibility has been made against Captain Essien.