A pastor is in police custody after allegedly sexually exploiting a 13-year-old girl in Mpape, Abuja, police sources said on Monday.

Zagazola Makama learnt that the incident occurred on 2 August 2025, at about 1803 hours, when a resident of Dogo Block Off Mashafa Road, Mpape, reported that her daughter, (named withheld), aged 13, had left home for four days and returned.

Upon attempting to discipline the girl, the family’s neighbor, Pastor Joseph (surname not disclosed) of the same address, intervened and suggested that the daughter be brought to his house for counseling.

It was later discovered that the suspect had sexually exploited and abused the girl.

The suspect was promptly arrested by the FCT Police and both the victim and suspect were taken to a hospital for medical examinations.

“The victim is receiving medical attention and psychological support in line with standard procedures for alleged child victims,” sources said.

The sources added that the case will be processed under Nigeria’s laws on child rights and sexual violence. If found guilty, the suspect faces serious penalties, including potential imprisonment and other sanctions as prescribed by law. (Zagazola)