The Kaduna State Government rescued a 7-year-old boy, Abubakar Sani, from his abusive father and stepmother, who allegedly tied his legs and poured hot water at them as punishment for stealing cookies.
This horrible incident occurred in the state’s Lyre Local Government area.
The state’s Human Services and Social Development Commissioner Rabi Salisu revealed this in a statement Wednesday, April 16, 2025, saying the boy had severely damaged legs and needed double amputations below the knee.
“About nine days ago, the report about the boy came to the department, and by then, his legs had rotted and Margot had come out, so the doctor’s advice was to amputate his life.”
The commissioner revealed that father Sani Tanimi Maishago and his wife, the boy’s stepmother locked Abubakar in a room for more than 20 days without proper food.
The commissioner added that police in the state have arrested their father and stepmother, “After the investigation is completed, they will face charges in court.
Salisu stressed that the state government has zero tolerance for child abuse, domestic violence and harassment.
“We will make sure justice helps deterrent to others.”
Chief Medical Director of Abdulkadir Musa Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital revealed that Abubakar’s future survival may depend on providing him with artificial limbs.
He advised parents to be cautious and persevere when punishing their children, warning that “irreversible consequences” may lead to excessive punishment.
Meanwhile, the state government reiterated its commitment to defending the rights of children, and Salisu stressed that “the social well-being of children is the highest goal of the state.”
She added that the government will continue to work to ensure justice and protect children from abuse and exploitation in the state.
