EGOT Campaign Against Rape Gains Ground: NSCDC Cross River Command and Bright Future School Lead the Way in Child Protection

The Emerging Genderplus Outreach Team (EGOT) proudly highlights a powerful victory in its campaign to speak up against rape and promote active bystander intervention. A recent rescue and referral for prosecution in Cross River State demonstrates the life-saving impact of community vigilance, institutional collaboration, and school-based safeguarding.

On November 13, 2025, at approximately 1400 hours, personnel from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Cross River State Command, responded to a distress alert from a local school in Odukpani. The alert followed a report from the Principal and staff of Bright Future School, who noticed signs of trauma in a 14-year-old female student and immediately contacted EGOT.

This timely and courageous action by the school’s leadership and staff was instrumental in triggering a swift response. The minor was safely removed from the harmful environment and placed in protective custody at the Basic Rights Council Emergency Shelter, where she is receiving essential medical and psychosocial support.

EGOT commends Bright Future School, Odukpani, for exemplifying what it means to be a child-centered institution. The school’s proactive stance in identifying and reporting signs of abuse reflects a deep commitment to the safety and well-being of its pupils. We urge other educational institutions to emulate this model of vigilance and compassion. Bright Future School stands as a beacon of responsibility and integrity in the fight against child abuse.

We also extend our deepest appreciation to the Cross River State Commandant of the NSCDC for outstanding leadership and rapid intervention. The Command’s efforts led to the apprehension of Mr. Kokoete Dan (40), who was found loitering near the school premises with intent to lure the victim. Upon arrest and interrogation, Mr. Dan confessed to a single sexual assault and was immediately handed over to the Nigeria Police Force Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for prosecution.

The case also implicates the minor’s biological father, who remains at large. Allegations suggest repeated sexual abuse at home following the death of the child’s mother. The NSCDC has formally transferred the case file to the NPF, urging immediate apprehension of the victim’s father, and prosecution of both perpetrators under the Cross River State Child Rights Law, 2023.

Medical examinations confirmed multiple infested bruises on the victim’s genital area, underscoring the urgency of legal action and long-term care.

This case is a reminder of the importance of speaking up and the life-saving impact of active bystander intervention. EGOT continues to advocate for:

– Community vigilance and reporting of suspected abuse
– Strengthened inter-agency collaboration
– Swift prosecution of perpetrators
– Comprehensive support for survivors
– School-based safeguarding and trauma awareness training

We call on all stakeholders—government agencies, civil society, educators, and everyday citizens—to remain resolute in protecting our children and dismantling the culture of silence around sexual violence.

Together, we are turning outrage into action.