The Kano State Ministry of Women Affairs, Children and Persons with Special Needs, has rescued a 19-month-old child from alleged abuse and neglect in Gezawa Local Government Area of the state.
This was contained in a statement on Thursday in Kano by the Director of Public Enlightenment in the ministry, Bintu Nuhu-Yamasaki.
The victim, a male child, was rescued following reports by residents of Tsamiya Babba community over his alleged maltreatment by his foster mother.
According to the statement, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Children and Persons with Special Needs, Hajiya Amina Abdullahi, acted swiftly after verified reports.
“According to preliminary investigations, the child was found to be severely malnourished and was allegedly left alone in the house for long hours, while the foster mother went about her daily activities.”
The statement added that residents of the area also alleged that the toddler was often left unsupervised, exposing him to serious health and safety risks.
“The Commissioner personally visited the residence to assess the situation before directing an intervention team from the ministry, and the Nassarawa Children’s Home to carry out a detailed investigation.
“The team, led by the Acting Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Alhaji Muhammad Iliyasu, conducted an extensive inquiry with support from community members and local vigilantes.”
According to the statement, investigations revealed that the foster mother, identified as Aisha Shuaibu, had two children under her care from the children’s home.
“During interrogation, the suspect admitted leaving the child alone on a few occasions.
“However, when questioned about multiple scars found on the child’s body, her explanations were found to be unsatisfactory,” the statement added.
It said the matter had been transferred to Gezawa Divisional Police Headquarters for further investigation, adding that the suspect would remain in police custody pending the outcome of investigations and possible prosecution.
The statement condemned all forms of child abuse and neglect, warning that the ministry would take decisive action against any foster parent found maltreating children placed under their care.
It said the ministry would intensify monitoring and routine visits to foster homes to ensure the safety, welfare and protection of vulnerable children across the state. (NAN)
