A 42-year-old housewife in Taraba State, Nigeria, has been arrested for allegedly burning the lips of her eight-year-old step grandson with firewood. The incident, which occurred in Wukari, has sparked outrage and calls for justice from the local community.
The Explainer learned, Ngozi Onwuasoalya was taken into custody following a tip-off from concerned residents.
The victim, Julius Chinecherim, is currently receiving treatment at the Federal University Teaching Hospital in Wukari. According to reports, the boy’s lips were burned as punishment for misplacing 500 naira.
Gambo Kwache, the acting police spokesperson for Taraba State, confirmed the arrest to Premium Times.
“The case is currently before the criminal investigation department, and the suspect is in custody at the Wukari division,” Kwache stated.
Samaila Dauda, Chairman of Wukari Local Government, also addressed the incident.
“The authorities have acted quickly in response to the situation, and the accused is currently in detention,” he said.
Dauda added that the woman would soon face charges in court.
The case has highlighted concerns about child protection in the region. Julius Iliya, a community member, urged the state government and child protection organizations to intervene.
“We need measures to protect vulnerable children in our state against domestic abuse,” Iliya emphasized.
