ABUJA — The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has launched a manhunt for a man accused of violently assaulting his wife in Abuja.

Head of NAPTIP’s Rapid Response Unit, Dr Emeh Magnus, said in a statement on Wednesday that the suspect inflicted life-threatening injuries on his spouse before fleeing to an unknown location.

He said the victim, whose identity was withheld, was rushed to a hospital in the Gudu District, where she underwent emergency surgery under close monitoring by NAPTIP officers.

Following the attack, operatives of the agency proceeded to the suspect’s residence in Jabi to effect an arrest but were allegedly prevented by a retired military officer who insisted the case was a private family matter.

“The agency has reason to believe the officer facilitated the suspect’s escape to an undisclosed location,” Magnus stated.

He said NAPTIP has since raised an inter-agency alert and notified the Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Immigration Service, and relevant military authorities to track and apprehend the suspect, whose international passport has been flagged to prevent escape from the country.

The agency has also filed a formal report with the Inspector-General of Police and the Chief of Defence Staff over the alleged obstruction.

Magnus warned that domestic violence is a criminal offence under Nigerian law and that anyone aiding the suspect would face investigation and prosecution.

“We remain committed to ensuring justice for victims of domestic violence. This case will be pursued to its lawful conclusion,” he said.

He added that the victim is now in stable condition and under medical observation.