The Nigeria Police Force has arrested a woman, Ihsanatu Shaaibu, and a male suspect for allegedly abusing her five-year-old stepdaughter, Fa’iza Bala.
Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, confirmed the arrest in a Facebook post on Thursday night. He revealed that the suspects were taken into custody earlier that day and will face prosecution once investigations are complete.
Speaking on the case, Adejobi said, “CHILD ABUSE, In relation to the viral video where a woman identified as Ihsanatu Shaaibu physically abused and caused grievous injuries to her stepdaughter, Fa’iza Bala, a 5-year-old, the suspects have been arrested today, Thursday, 9th January 2025, and will be prosecuted as soon as investigations are concluded.”
He assured the public of updates on the case and reaffirmed the police’s commitment to ensuring justice for the victim.
The case gained widespread attention after a video showing the injuries inflicted on young Fa’iza went viral on social media, sparking outrage among Nigerians.
Many called for the immediate arrest and prosecution of the suspects to serve as a deterrent against child abuse.
The arrest comes amid an ongoing trial of a primary school teacher, Stella Nwadigo, in Lagos, who is accused of physically abusing her three-year-old pupil.
Child rights advocates continue to urge the public to report cases of abuse to authorities to protect vulnerable children like Fa’iza.
