The long arm of the law has finally brought a decade-long saga to a close, as a commercial driver and mechanic, Okon Jimmy Ama, has been handed a combined 24-year prison sentence for the heinous crimes of incest, rape, and assault against his two biological daughters. The verdict, delivered by the State High Court in Uyo, marks a significant moment in the fight against sexual abuse within Akwa Ibom.
Ama, 51, a resident of Ikot Ekop village in Mkpat Enin local government area, was convicted and sentenced by Hon. Justice Winifred Effiong, bringing to an end a prosecution that spanned approximately ten years.
The shocking details of the case reveal that the horrific incidents first came to light in 2015. Court particulars documented that Ama “repeatedly molested his daughters, aged 13 and 16 by having carnal knowledge of them severally.” Further damning evidence presented during the trial indicated that Ama not only subjected his children to sexual abuse but also resorted to violence, using a car fan belt to beat one of his daughters, before attempting to dispose of the incriminating evidence in a pit toilet.
Justice Effiong, presiding over the case, convicted Ama on all counts. He received seven-year imprisonment each for counts 1 and 2, relating to incest by a male, an additional three years for assault occasioning bodily harm, and a substantial fourteen years for rape. The judge stipulated that “the sentences are to run concurrently,” ensuring Ama will serve a maximum of 14 years behind bars.
Ofonime Idio, Esq., the Chief State Counsel and prosecuting counsel from the State Ministry of Justice, hailed the judgement as a pivotal moment for justice. Speaking after the sentencing, Mr Idio described the outcome as “a strong statement against sexual abuse and a victory for justice in the State,” underscoring the unwavering commitment of the legal system to protect the vulnerable.
