Kaduna govt rescues seven-year-old boy from ‘abusive father’

The Kaduna State Ministry of Human Services and Social Development has rescued a seven-year-old boy, Abubakar Sani, from his abusive father in Lere Local Government Area of the state.

According to reports, the boy’s father tied up his two legs and poured hot water on them for allegedly stealing biscuits.

The Commissioner for the Ministry, Hajiya Rabi Salisu, speaking to journalists during her visit to the victim, who is currently recuperating at the Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital, disclosed that medical examination revealed amputation was the only option to save the boy’s life.

She stated, “The boy’s case was reported to the ministry about nine days ago, and by then, his legs had already rotted and were infested with maggots. The doctors advised amputation to save his life.

“It is so disheartening to imagine the pain and trauma the child must have endured. As if that was not enough, his father, with the help of his wife, the boy’s stepmother, locked him in a room for over 20 days in that condition, without proper food.”

Hajiya Rabi Salisu further disclosed that the police have apprehended the father, identified as Sani Tanimi Maishago, as well as the boy’s stepmother. She noted that once investigations are concluded, they would be charged to court and pledged to keep the public informed.

She reiterated that the state government, through its Child Protection Law, is resolute in defending the rights of all children, emphasising that the social wellbeing of children is the state’s paramount goal.

She stated, “The state has zero tolerance for child molestation, domestic violence, rape, and all forms of abuse against women and children. We will ensure justice is served as a deterrent to others. I also want to warn parents that they do not have the right to inflict such harm on their children. The government also holds rights over every child.”

Dr Abdulkadir Musa, Chief Medical Director of Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital, Kaduna State University, spoke about the future implications for the boy. He confirmed that both legs had been amputated below the knee, leaving the boy permanently disabled.

He stated, “In the future, perhaps the only option to ease his survival would be to equip him with artificial limbs.”

Dr Musa also counselled parents to understand their limits when it comes to disciplining their children, advising them to exercise caution and patience to avoid irreversible consequences.

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