Tragedy truck in Wula, in Eastern Boki, Boki local government area of Cross River state when a pastor allegedly beat a 14-year-old girl, Nancy Peter to death.

The Incident sparked outrage after allegations that she was first beaten by her mother and later flogged by a pastor over claims of theft.

In a statement by the Cross River State Police Relations Officer, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, he disclosed that preliminary findings indicate that the victim, identified as Miss Nancy Peter, was first assaulted by her mother, Mrs. Agnes Peter, 45, before being taken to Pastor Samson Roman Dago, 43, who allegedly subjected her to further corporal punishment with a cane.

He said a full-scale investigation has begun to really establish the exact circumstances surrounding the incident and determine the involvement of all those linked to the tragedy.

The command also dismissed, for now, social media claims that the girl was sexually assaulted, saying no evidence had been found to support such allegations.

It added that medical examinations and other investigative steps were ongoing.

Some village sources said the teenager became unconscious after the beating and was rushed to a medical facility in Wula Community, where doctors confirmed her dead on arrival.

Vanguard gathered that the community has now been left in shock, as the death has revived painful concerns about the dangers of corporal punishment and the need for greater child protection.

A child rights advocates, James Ibor esq, and principal Counsel at Basic Rights Counsel Initiative, ( BRCI)said that physical punishment does not correct children; it scars them, deepens fear, and can lead to irreversible harm.

“It is reprehensible and heartbreaking , that in 2026 this kind of barbaric act will still be happening, after the child rights act was passed since 2023.

“I’m calling on the Commissioner for police not to allow this girl’s murder to go unpunished , neither should it be forgotten like other murders of this nature.

“A child should never be disciplined to the point of collapse. This is a tragedy that should never have happened, the police must do everything possible to ensure the girl get’s justice , it is a sad development, ibor said.

Members of the Take-It-Back Movement on Monday staged a protest at Mokola Roundabout in Ibadan, Oyo State, over the kidnapping of students and teachers by terrorists in the Oriire Local Government Area.

Some of the protesters were seen carrying placards with different inscriptions while expressing outrage at the worsening insecurity in the state which they said is affecting residents, farmers, traders and students.

Some of the placards read, “Security for all, not for a few,” “Government must end kidnapping in Oyo State,” “We demand safer roads and communities,” “Protect farmers, traders and students,” and “Peace, security and justice.”

Speaking during the protest, one of the protesters said Nigerians were becoming increasingly frustrated by the persistent security challenges confronting the country.

“Let them know that the people of Nigeria are not at peace. Let them know that the people of Oyo State are not smiling. Let them know that the Nigerian people are fed up with insecurity,” the protester said.

The protest comes amid the growing outrage over the continued stay of the victims in the terrorists camp two weeks after they were kidnapped from their schools in the Ahoro-Esiele community of Oriire Local Government Area.

The protesters, who converged on the busy junction in the state capital, called on the government and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the release of the victims and address the rising cases of kidnapping across Oyo State.

Governor Seyi Makinde had visited the community on Saturday assuring the families of the victims that his administration will take all the necessary steps within the law to secure their release from the terrorists’ den.

Makinde gave the assurance during a visit to Ahoro-Esiele community, where he met with affected families, community leaders, and residents at the open field of L.A. Basic School.

Speaking at the meeting, the governor said the state government shared the pain and concerns of the families and remained fully committed to ensuring the victims’ safe return.

“I understand the pain and anxiety that many of you are experiencing at this moment. As your government, we share your concerns, and we are fully committed to securing the safe return of our children and their teachers,” he said.

On Sunday, a delegation of the federal government of Nigerian led by the Chief of Staff to the president, Femi Gbajabiamila visited the community to assess the situation and speak with families and community members.

Member representing Ikeja Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. James Abiodun Faleke, on Sunday hosted former Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, CON, at his residence in Ikeja, Lagos, where both leaders emphasized political unity, reconciliation, and continued development.

Bello, accompanied by members of his entourage, was warmly received by Faleke and his family during the courtesy visit, which provided an opportunity for both politicians to reflect on leadership, governance, and the future of Kogi State.

Speaking during the visit, Faleke expressed appreciation to the former governor for the gesture, describing it as a demonstration of brotherhood and mutual respect.

He recalled that Bello had previously paid him a similar visit in Abuja, noting that such engagements help strengthen political relationships and foster unity among leaders.

“I want to thank you for finding time to visit us, rejoice with us, and dine with my family. This is not the first time you have shown such goodwill. Your visits demonstrate the importance of maintaining strong bonds of friendship and mutual respect,” Faleke said.

The lawmaker commended Bello’s record as governor of Kogi State, expressing confidence that his achievements in office would serve as a strong foundation for his senatorial ambition.

“As we prepare for the campaign season, I want to wish you success. Your achievements will continue to speak for you. The people can see the impact of your leadership and the difference you made while serving as governor,” he said.

Faleke added that Bello’s performance in office had earned him substantial goodwill among the electorate and expressed optimism about his prospects in the forthcoming election.

He also praised Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, for sustaining governance and development initiatives in the state.

“I have commended Governor Ododo both privately and publicly. He is doing very well, and I wish him continued success in serving the people of Kogi State,” Faleke stated.

Reflecting on political reconciliation, the lawmaker stressed that politics should not be treated as a do-or-die affair, noting that former rivals often find common ground in the interest of peace and development.

“In politics, the impossible can become possible. People who were once perceived as opponents can become allies. Life is too short for unnecessary political divisions. We should focus on unity and collective progress,” he said.

Faleke also described Lagos as a welcoming and accommodating state where individuals are judged by their contributions rather than their ethnic or regional backgrounds.

“Lagos appreciates people who mean well. The state welcomes everyone and rewards hard work, dedication, and good intentions regardless of where they come from,” he added.

Responding, Bello thanked Faleke and his family for the warm reception and hospitality extended to him and his entourage.

The former governor commended Faleke’s leadership qualities and contributions to public service, describing him as one of the political leaders who embody the values and leadership philosophy of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“I am proud of you and your accomplishments. Through the mentorship and teachings of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we have leaders like you who continue to make meaningful contributions to governance and nation-building,” Bello said.

He emphasized the importance of unity in advancing development, stressing that political leaders must continue working together in the interest of their people.

“Whatever we seek to achieve for our state and our people becomes easier when we are united. We must continue to work together for progress, development, and the overall good of our communities,” he said.

Bello also expressed appreciation to Faleke’s family for the hospitality shown during the visit, describing the engagement as an opportunity to further strengthen ties among political leaders committed to national development.

The meeting comes amid increasing political consultations ahead of the 2027 general elections, with both leaders reaffirming the importance of unity, reconciliation, and service to the people.