A teenage domestic worker identified as Amarachi has been rescued after she was allegedly locked inside a toilet for months by her employers in Abuloma, Rivers State.
Amarachi, who hails from Ebonyi State, was reportedly working as a domestic maid for a couple in the Abuloma area of the state before the incident occurred.
According to reports, the teenager was allegedly confined in the toilet over an undisclosed offence and fed only daily leftovers during the period. The situation came to public attention on Tuesday, September 15, when Amarachi reportedly raised cries for help after the couple left the house.
Her cries attracted the attention of neighbours, who alerted the police at the Abuloma Division of the Rivers State Police Command. The officers reportedly responded to the distress call and rescued the teenager from the alleged confinement.
However, the Rivers State Police Command confirmed the arrest of the couple in connection with the incident. The Rivers State Police Command spokesperson, Agabe Blessing, confirmed that the couple had been arrested and remained in police custody. Agabe said investigations into the circumstances surrounding the teenager’s alleged confinement and treatment were ongoing.
Following her rescue, Amarachi was safely reunited with her family, who reportedly travelled from Ebonyi State to Rivers State after learning about her ordeal.
The circumstances surrounding the alleged confinement, including the duration of her detention and the specific offence for which she was reportedly punished, remain undisclosed.
The development has thus heightened concerns about the welfare and safety of young domestic workers in Nigeria, particularly those who leave their homes to work in unfamiliar environments.
Authorities are shouldered to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and determine the appropriate legal action against the arrested couple.
By Musekir Faisat OmolaraÂ
