BY MUSA IDRIS UMAR, DECEMBER 17, 2025 | 04:15 PM

Fear spread quickly across Maiduguri after social media posts alleged that a suspect involved in the rape of a five-year-old pupil had been arrested and later released.

The claims triggered public outrage, especially among parents living in the State Low-Cost area where the incident was said to have occurred.

In response, the Borno State Police Command, in a statement on Wednesday by ASP Nahum Kenneth Daso, spokesman of the command issued a clarification to address what it described as misinformation surrounding the case.

Police said a formal petition was received on November 24, concerning an alleged sexual assault that reportedly took place on November 13.

According to the petition, the incident occurred at about 9:00 a.m. while the child was on her way to school in the State Low-Cost area of Maiduguri.

The suspect named in the report was identified as Abdulsalam M. Adakwaki, also known as Yaro.

The command said investigations began immediately after the petition was received, with the State Criminal Investigation Department handling the case.

Police authorities dismissed claims circulating online that the suspect had been arrested and released.

They confirmed that no arrest has been made and that the suspect is currently at large.

The command said intensive efforts are ongoing to locate and apprehend the suspect.

Community leaders, including the Lawan of the area, have been engaged to support the search.

The Civilian Joint Task Force has also been requested to assist in tracking and arresting the suspect.

Police said the investigation is being conducted under appropriate supervision to ensure transparency and accountability.

The command added that civil society organizations, non-governmental organizations, and the National Human Rights Commission are allowed to monitor and engage with the process.

Residents with credible information on the suspect’s whereabouts were urged to report to the nearest police station.

Emergency contact lines were also released to encourage public cooperation.

For many families in Maiduguri, the case has renewed fears about child safety on school routes and within residential areas.

Police authorities assured the public that justice remains the priority and that further updates will be shared as the investigation continues.