Edo Takes 11-Year-Old Girl Into Protective Custody Over Alleged Abuse
The Edo State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development has taken 11-year-old Rejoice Godswill into protective custody after a viral video showed her with visible injuries and alleged abuse in the New Benin area of Benin City. In the video, the girl’s mother allegedly admitted to burning part of the child’s buttocks with melted nylon as punishment. The ministry ordered the arrest of the mother and stepfather, who are being held as police investigate claims that the stepfather may have helped restrain the child. Rejoice is receiving medical treatment, psychosocial support and temporary shelter. Authorities also observed older marks on her body, which will form part of the investigation. The state government says it will prosecute anyone found responsible and has urged residents to report child abuse, neglect or exploitation promptly.
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