A 35 year old woman, Añulika Nwokike Onyeanusi, has pleaded not guilty to a 14 count charge filed against her by the Anambra State Government over allegations of sexual abuse and exploitation involving her two minor daughters.
The defendant entered her plea before Justice Peace Otti of the Children, Sexual and Gender Based Violence Court of the Anambra State High Court in Awka.
According to the charge, the alleged offences occurred between November 2025 and September 2026 at a residence on Ezego Ojoto Street, Akpaka GRA, Onitsha.
The prosecution alleges that the defendant sexually abused her biological daughters, aged seven and nine, and used them for the production of pornography and pornographic performances.
The charges were brought under provisions of the Anambra State Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Law 2017 and the Child’s Rights Law of Anambra State 2006.
The 14 count charge includes allegations of sexual penetration, sexual abuse and exploitation, using children for pornographic performances, compelling minors to engage in sexual conduct, emotional and psychological abuse, and placing the children in fear of physical injury.
The prosecution alleges that the acts caused or exposed the children to physical and psychological harm.
The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charges. The allegations have yet to be established in court, and the defendant is entitled to the presumption of innocence as the case proceeds.
Following the defendant’s plea, Justice Otti adjourned the matter until November 27, 2026, for a ruling on the bail application.
The state was represented by the Anambra State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Tobechukwu Nweke, SAN, alongside the Director of Public Prosecutions, Nneka Umeozulu, and other counsel from the Ministry of Justice’s Criminal and Sexual and Gender-Based Violence units.
The next court date is expected to determine the pending bail application as the legal proceedings continue.
The identities of the two children have been withheld to protect their privacy and safeguard their welfare.
