By Jiji Jack

The Upper Area Court I in Gboko, Benue State, on Thursday remanded a 55-year-old man, Joseph Hwande, at the Gboko Correctional Centre following his arraignment over allegations of gross indecency involving an 11-year-old girl. The matter was adjourned until July 29, 2026, for further proceedings.

The Upper Area Court I sitting in Gboko, Benue State, has ordered the remand of Mr. Joseph Hwande, 55, of Chigo Settlement, Gboko South, pending further hearing in a case involving the alleged sexual abuse of an 11-year-old girl.

According to information presented before the court, the defendant was arraigned by the Nigeria Police Force over allegations of committing an act of gross indecency against the minor. The prosecution further alleged that the child was repeatedly intimidated to prevent her from reporting the alleged abuse.

The court ordered that the defendant be remanded at the Gboko Correctional Centre and adjourned the matter until July 29, 2026.

The prosecution told the court that the girl allegedly left the accused's residence on June 26, 2026, following repeated abuse and maltreatment. She was reportedly assisted by a resident who handed her over to members of a local vigilante group in Akaajime, Gboko, before the matter was transferred to the Police B Division in Gboko for investigation.

The prosecution also alleged that the child, described as a displaced Fulani girl, had been left in the care of the accused after arrangements involving her mother.

Barrister Innocent Tyotsugh appeared in court on a voluntary basis to represent the interests of the minor.

The allegations remain before the court, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty by a competent court.