A disturbing case of domestic violence in Lere Local Government Area of Kaduna State has left a seven-year-old boy, Abubakar Sani, permanently disabled after enduring severe abuse from his father and stepmother.
According to the Kaduna State Ministry of Human Services and Social Development, the boy’s father, Sani Tanimi Maishago, allegedly tied his legs and poured boiling water on them in punishment for stealing biscuits.
The horrific act caused critical injuries that led to the amputation of both legs below the knees.
Doctors at the Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital, where the child was rushed for emergency care, said the procedure was necessary to save his life.
“The amputation has resulted in a permanent disability,” said the hospital’s Chief Medical Director, Dr Abdulkadir Musa.
“But the child could be fitted with artificial limbs in the future.”
In addition to the physical abuse, the ministry revealed that the young boy had been locked up for over 20 days without proper nutrition.
Speaking at the hospital where she visited the victim, the Commissioner for Human Services and Social Development, Hajiya Salisu, expressed profound sadness.
“This is a heartbreaking case,” she said. “The child was subjected to inhumane treatment by those meant to protect him.”
The commissioner confirmed that both the father and the stepmother have been arrested and are currently in police custody.
“They will be prosecuted upon the conclusion of investigations,” she assured.
She also emphasized the state government’s resolve to fully implement the Child Protection Law.
“Kaduna will not tolerate child abuse, domestic violence, or rape in any form,” Salisu stated.
Dr Musa, while addressing journalists, urged parents to adopt non-violent methods in child discipline.
“We call on parents to exercise patience and restraint when correcting their children,” he said.
“Violent discipline can lead to irreversible consequences.”
