A 14-year-old schoolgirl in Sapele, Delta State, has been reunited with her family after she was allegedly abducted and sexually assaulted by a school bus driver, who reportedly collected ₦503,000 from her father as ransom.
The Delta State Police Command has arrested the 28-year-old suspect, identified as Onome Lucky Ughagha, in connection with the incident, which has raised fresh concerns about the safety of children entrusted to school transport operators.
According to the police, the girl’s father reported the incident at the Sapele Area Command on October 20, 2026, alleging that his daughter was abducted while preparing to leave for school.
The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, SP Bright Edafe, said the suspect allegedly contacted the victim’s father, demanded ₦503,000 and threatened to kill the girl if the ransom was not paid.
After the payment, the girl was reportedly abandoned along Oton Road in Sapele and later reunited with her family in a traumatised condition, with indications that she had suffered sexual assault.
Following the report, police operatives launched an investigation and arranged for the victim to receive medical examination and treatment.
The school’s principal and vice principal were also invited for questioning as investigators worked to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Police said the suspect allegedly abandoned the school bus and fled after the incident but was eventually arrested on October 23 at a hideout in the Ajimele area of Sapele following intelligence-led operations.
The police spokesperson added that the suspect reportedly confessed to involvement in the crime during preliminary interrogation. The allegation remains subject to further investigation and judicial determination.
The suspect is expected to be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Asaba for further investigation.
Reacting to the incident, the Commissioner of Police in Delta State, CP Samuel Erale, condemned the alleged crime and reiterated the command’s commitment to protecting children against violence, abuse and exploitation.
He assured the public that the investigation would be thorough and that anyone found culpable would be brought to justice.
The commissioner also urged parents, school authorities and transport operators to strengthen child-protection measures, stressing that the safety of pupils must remain a priority.
The incident highlights the vulnerability of children who depend on school transport services and the importance of effective screening, supervision and accountability for those entrusted with their care.
