By: Contributing Writer
Nimba County — The head of the Nimba County branch of the Group of 77 Disabled Persons Organization has been sentenced to 25 years in prison after being found guilty of raping a 1-year-11-month-old baby girl.
The convicted man, Amos T. Gbawon, 52, who also served as co-chairman of the disabled organization, was handed the sentence by Judge Musa S. Sidibey of the Eighth Judicial Circuit Court in Sanniquellie.
The court, specially assigned to hear sexual offense cases, ruled that Gbawon committed the abuse within the premises of the Nimba County Disabled Community facility, where both he and the victim resided in separate apartments.
According to court records, the child had wandered from her mother’s apartment into Gbawon’s residence, where the assault occurred. A medical examination confirmed the abuse, leaving no doubt about the crime.
Judge Sidibey, in his ruling, underscored the severity of the offense and the responsibility of society to protect its most vulnerable members.
He stated that the 25-year sentence not only serves justice for the victim but also sends a strong message of deterrence in cases of sexual violence against children.
If Gbawon serves his full term, he will be 77 years old upon release.
Despite the overwhelming evidence, Gbawon has denied the charges, claiming in a statement to reporters that the case was part of a conspiracy to tarnish his reputation and undermine his leadership within the disabled community.
The conviction has sent shockwaves throughout Nimba County, sparking renewed calls from child protection advocates, community leaders, and local authorities for greater vigilance in safeguarding children, especially in communal living environments.
Advocates have stressed the need for stronger reporting mechanisms, increased education on child protection, and greater community support systems to prevent such horrific incidents in the future.
