The Kwara State Government has condemned a recent case of child abuse involving an eight-year-old boy, vowing to prosecute the perpetrator and warning against violations of children’s rights.
Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe, made the statement in Ilorin on Monday following the circulation of a disturbing social media video showing a young boy with severe injuries, allegedly inflicted by his guardian through corporal punishment.
Describing the incident as “barbaric” and “unacceptable,” Dr. Olohungbebe confirmed that the guardian has been arrested and will be prosecuted once investigations are concluded.
“We categorically affirm that all forms of violence against children have no place in our community,” the Commissioner said. “This government is committed to protecting our children and ensuring they grow up in a safe, nurturing environment.”
Dr. Olohungbebe also condemned the filming and public circulation of the child’s image, noting that recording the boy naked inside a classroom constituted a serious violation of his dignity and amounted to tech-based violence. He urged teachers to handle sensitive matters with discretion and avoid exposing children to further harm through irresponsible use of social media.
During a visit to the affected school, Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Universal Basic Education Board (KWSUBEB), Prof. Shehu Raheem Adaramaja, criticized the teacher who posted the viral video. He emphasized that proper procedures should have been followed by reporting the abuse to school authorities or community stakeholders instead of sharing the footage online.
Prof. Adaramaja added that the board will organize training for teachers during the upcoming holiday period, focusing on moral reorientation and best practices for child protection and development.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to the safety and well-being of both learners and educators, promising stricter enforcement of child protection policies across all educational institutions in the state.
