Writing By Khadijah Aliyu; Editing By Godwin Duru
Kano State Ministry of Women Affairs, Children and Persons with Special Needs has rescued a 19-month-old child, Musa, from alleged abuse and neglect following swift intervention by the Commissioner, Amina Abdullahi.
The rescue followed reports by concerned residents of Tsamiya Babba, who alerted authorities over the condition of the child allegedly being maltreated by his foster mother despite legally obtaining custody from the Nassarawa Children’s Home.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the toddler was severely malnourished and was frequently locked inside the house alone for several hours while the foster mother attended to her daily activities.
Residents further alleged that the child was often left unattended and exposed to unsafe conditions, including playing with chickens without adult supervision, thereby posing serious health and safety risks.
Upon receiving the complaint, the Commissioner personally visited the residence in the early hours of the day to assess the situation and immediately directed a special intervention team from the Ministry and the Nassarawa Children’s Home to conduct a full investigation.
The investigation team, led by the Acting Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Muhammad Sambo, carried out extensive inquiries with support from local vigilante members and community residents.
Findings showed that the foster mother, identified as Aisha Shuaibu, had two children under her care from the Nassarawa Children’s Home, Kabir, aged eight, and Musa, aged 19 months.
During interrogation, Aisha Shuaibu reportedly admitted leaving the child alone on three occasions.
However, investigators said she failed to provide satisfactory explanations regarding multiple scars discovered on Musa’s body.
The case was subsequently transferred to the Gezawa Divisional Police Headquarters, where statements were obtained from all parties involved.
The suspect remains in police custody pending further investigation and possible prosecution.
Reacting to the incident, the Commissioner, Amina Abdullahi, condemned all forms of child abuse and neglect, warning that the Ministry would take decisive action against any foster parent found mistreating children placed under their care.
She added that the Ministry would intensify monitoring and follow-up visits to foster homes across the state to ensure the safety, welfare, and wellbeing of vulnerable children.
KHADIJAH ALIYU
