Media Talk Africa: Latest Headlines in Politics, Business, Sports, and More

Lagos Police Launches Manhunt for Father Accused of Brutally Assaulting His Children

A disturbing case of child abuse has come to light in Lagos, Nigeria, after a father allegedly brutally assaulted his two children, leaving them with severe bodily injuries. The Lagos State Police Command has launched a manhunt for 48-year-old Kadiri Yusuf, also known as Alado, who is accused of inflicting the injuries on his 11-year-old daughter and 13-year-old son.

According to reports, the incident occurred in the Orile Agege area of Lagos State. The head teacher of a primary school reported the case to the police after noticing that one of her pupils, Yusuf’s 11-year-old daughter, had serious wounds all over her body. The teacher, who was visibly angered by the suspect’s actions, alerted local authorities to the children’s plight.

Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the details of the incident, stating that the head teacher discovered the wounded child around 7 am on Friday, October 18. "The teacher further claimed that upon inquiry, the little girl confided in her how her father, one Kadiri Yusuf alias Alado, used to beat her," Hundeyin said. He added, "The little girl also confided in her teacher that her father also beat up her elder brother, whose age was also put at 13."

Fortunately, the victims have been rescued and treated, and they have been placed in the safe custody of their sister. However, Yusuf fled his home before the police arrived, and efforts are underway to apprehend him.

This disturbing incident highlights the pressing issue of child abuse in Nigeria. According to PUNCH Online, numerous cases of physical, emotional, and sexual abuse have been reported. Experts have revealed that children are often subjected to violence in their homes, schools, and communities, with practices such as corporal punishment and child labour frequently justified by societal norms. This has led to widespread incidents going unreported due to fear and stigma, thereby perpetuating the cycle of abuse.

As the Lagos State Police Command continues its search for Yusuf, it is clear that more needs to be done to address the issue of child abuse in Nigeria. It is essential to create a society where children feel safe and protected, and where those who abuse them are held accountable for their actions.