Teenager endures brutal torture over false accusation of stealing church funds

October 03, 2024

By Samuel Ogunsona

Aondoakaa Yarkwan, a 14-year-old boy, has shared a harrowing account of being brutally tortured by church officials and local security personnel after being falsely accused of stealing over N200,000 in church donations at St. Joseph Parish, Korinya, Benue State.

The incident occurred on September 8, 2024, during a thanksgiving service where the congregation donated more than N200,000. Yarkwan, tasked with securing the funds, was blamed when the money went missing and was replaced with scraps of paper.

Yarkwan recounted being interrogated and slapped three times by Rev. Father Emmanuel Doki, the Parish Priest, who demanded he confess. Despite Yarkwan’s denial, church officials, including the chairman, Mr. Tartsegha, Catechist Kumbur, and Deacon Agber, flogged him with a horsewhip and handed him over to the Livestock Guards.

The teenager described being taken to a forest, known as Golgotha, where thieves are often burned alive. He lost consciousness due to the torture and was rushed to the hospital by his grandmother.

Weeks later, a 12-year-old altar boy confessed to stealing the remaining money, with only N10,000 recovered. However, the church still demanded Yarkwan’s family pay N80,000.

Yarkwan’s mother, Benedicta, condemned the decision, stating, “My son can barely breathe, and yet they blamed him for what the 12-year-old boy did.” The community has expressed outrage, calling for an investigation into the abuse of vulnerable children.

When contacted, Benue State Police Public Relations Officer Anene Sewuese stated she was unaware of the incident.

This disturbing incident raises concerns about juvenile justice, child protection, and accountability within religious institutions.

The Benue State Government and law enforcement agencies have been urged to investigate the incident and ensure those responsible are held accountable.

Child rights activists have called for increased protection and support for victims of child abuse, particularly in religious settings.

The Catholic Church has faced criticism for its handling of the incident, with many demanding an apology and compensation for Yarkwan’s family.

As the investigation unfolds, the community remains vigilant, seeking justice for the young victim and measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.