Stepfather arrested after burning stepdaughter’s hands over alleged 200-shilling theft

15 September 2026, 1:28 pm

By Odur Alphonce Ojok and Sarah Ejang

On Monday, police from Alemere Police Station employed live ammunition to apprehend Mr. Esongu Nickson, known as Onik, following a harrowing incident involving the brutal abuse of his stepdaughter.

The child’s hands were bound with grass and set ablaze by Mr. Esongu and his wife, Akullu Dilish, at their home in Epyel Cell, Epyel Ward, Amolatar Town Council.

According to reports, Mr. Esongu accused the girl of stealing 200 shillings.

In a horrifying act of punishment, he enlisted his wife to tie grass around the child’s hands and ignite it, resulting in severe burns. Fearing for her safety, the girl managed to escape to a nearby residence where the Local Council One was promptly informed. Police were quickly alerted and responded by involving Officer Alfred Emong Adingi.

Akullu Dilish was initially detained by community members and upon police arrival, she confirmed that Mr. Esongu had committed the cruel act against the child. When Mr. Esongu attempted to flee from a hideout near his home, he encountered another police unit. The officers fired warning shots into the air before successfully apprehending him.

In an interview with reporters, the victim revealed that she suffered ongoing physical abuse from both her mother and stepfather. She frequently went without food and was neglected when it came to clothing. While her mother and stepfather had two children together who received new clothes, the stepdaughter was consistently left without support or provisions.

Unverified sources further claim that the victim’s biological father had been stabbed to death by Mr. Esongu in Nambyeso, Kwania District, adding a darker layer to the suspect’s violent history.

At the time of this report, both Mr. Esongu Nickson and Akullu Dilish were held at Amolatar Central Police Station as investigations continue.

The local community and authorities have expressed deep concern over the abuse and are committed to ensuring justice for the child.