The Anambra State Government has vowed to ensure justice is served following a shocking incident involving a Junior Secondary School (JSS3) student, Miracle Amah, who reportedly arrived at school with burn injuries allegedly inflicted by her guardian, identified as Mrs. Osinachi Edeh. The case has sparked widespread public outrage, prompting immediate statements from government officials and the police.
The incident occurred on Tuesday, 3 February 2026, in Anaocha Local Government Area, but only came to public attention when Amah reported to Community Secondary School, Agulu, the following day, bearing visible burns on her face, chest, and other parts of her body. School authorities promptly invited the guardian for questioning.
According to Miracle’s account to her teachers, the ordeal began after a seemingly innocent phone call:
“I used my aunt’s phone to call my cousin but accidentally dialled a wrong number. I did not know that my aunt overheard the call and accused me of calling a male friend,” Amah said.
“When I tried to explain, she refused to believe me and later told another relative that I had started keeping boyfriends. She threatened me with a knife to force me to confess that I have a boyfriend. When I insisted on being innocent, she heated up a pressing iron and inflicted burns on my face, breasts, and other parts of my body.”
Government Reaction: Commitment to Child Protection
In response to the allegations, the Anambra State Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, condemned the act and reassured the public of the government’s commitment to safeguarding children. In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday, 5 February 2026, she said:
“The state government will not tolerate the abuse of children under any circumstances. The incident will not be swept under the carpet, and investigations are ongoing.”
Prof. Chuma-Udeh further warned that the perpetrator would face legal consequences if found guilty:
“We are not treating any matter relating to child abuse with kid gloves. Investigations are ongoing, and the full weight of the law will be brought to bear on the suspect if found culpable. Child welfare remains a top priority for Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration.”
She emphasized that protecting the rights and safety of children in Anambra State is a non-negotiable responsibility of the government.
Police Investigation Underway
The Anambra State Police Command has taken control of the investigation. Mrs. Edeh has been detained as inquiries continue. Law enforcement officials have indicated that the suspect may face prosecution if found guilty of the alleged abuse.
Public Outcry and Social Response
The incident has drawn national attention, with citizens, child rights advocates, and social media users expressing shock and condemnation. Many have called for strict enforcement of child protection laws to prevent similar occurrences in schools and homes across the state.
Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration has pledged that no stone will be left unturned to ensure justice for Miracle Amah, highlighting the broader need to strengthen child protection mechanisms within communities.
As the investigation unfolds, the case serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by children in domestic settings and the urgent necessity for active monitoring and enforcement of child welfare regulations across Nigeria.
