Ebonyi State Government Arrests Over 30 Suspected Sex Workers, Seals Abakaliki Guest House

The Ebonyi State Government has arrested more than 30 suspected commercial sex workers and sealed a guest house in Abakaliki following an enforcement operation over alleged building approval violations and security concerns.

The operation involved government officials and security personnel who visited the premises to investigate activities taking place there.

During the exercise, substances suspected to be Colos and Indian hemp were reportedly recovered. The exact nature of the substances has not been independently confirmed.

The guest house was subsequently sealed, while its owner was reportedly directed to explain the property’s approval status and the activities being carried out there.

Allegations of Assault Emerge

The operation has also attracted attention following allegations that some women were physically assaulted during the exercise.

Richard Ugo Idike, the Commissioner for Capital City Development and Urban Planning, was accused of slapping one of the women. An officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) was also accused of kicking and assaulting some of the women.

The allegations have raised concerns about the treatment of the women during the operation. However, the claims have not been conclusively established, and it remains unclear whether an official investigation into the alleged assaults has commenced.

Investigation and Next Steps

Details about the identities of those arrested, possible charges and the outcome of investigations into the suspected substances remain unclear.

Authorities are also yet to provide further information about the allegations of assault or whether any action will be taken in response.

The incident has drawn attention to the enforcement of building regulations in Abakaliki and the need for government officials and security personnel to respect people’s rights while carrying out their duties.