The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested an Islamic cleric in Ondo State over allegations of assault and child abuse involving two minors in Owo.The cleric, popularly known as an Alfa, was taken into custody following complaints that he subjected the children to severe physical punishment over alleged misconduct. The case came to light after teachers noticed injuries on the pupils and alerted the appropriate authorities.
A child-rights organisation, the Kids & Teens Resource Centre, intervened after the report and, working with NSCDC operatives, facilitated the rescue of the children and the arrest of the suspect.Confirming the development, the NSCDC spokesperson in Ondo State said the cleric has been charged to court for offences related to assault and child abuse, in violation of the Child Rights Act and the Ondo State Child Protection Law. The spokesperson stressed that the command would not tolerate violence against minors and that offenders would be prosecuted accordingly.
The Executive Director of the Kids & Teens Resource Centre also said preliminary findings showed the punishment given to the children was excessive, unlawful and amounted to criminal abuse. The minors have since been taken to a medical facility for treatment, while the suspect is expected to be arraigned before a magistrate’s court in Ondo next Thursday. The organisation urged religious bodies, parents and guardians to observe lawful disciplinary methods, warning that violence against children remains a criminal offence under Nigerian law.
Source: https://www.thehopenewspaper.com/
