In Lafia, the capital of Nasarawa State, a four-year-old orphan named Ukasha was reportedly subjected to severe abuse by his uncle and guardian, Mai-Naira Abdullahi.
The incident took place on Saturday, April 12, 2025, in the Galafima Phase II area of Tudun Amba, Lafia.
The Men Against R3pe Foundation (MARF), a rights advocacy group, issued a statement on Thursday condemning the brutal assault on the young boy. According to the foundation, Ukasha was brutally flogged by Abdullahi for dancing at a local naming ceremony alongside other children and women.
The uncle, allegedly upset by the boy’s participation, deemed it contrary to his beliefs and subjected Ukasha to a vicious beating, which resulted in deep cuts on his back, sides, face, and stomach. Eyewitnesses described the scene as horrifying, noting that the wounds remained fresh and visible even two days later.
In a brief interview, Ukasha revealed that he did not receive any form of pain relief or medical treatment following the attack.
In a statement signed by Executive Director Dr. Lemmy Ughegbe and Director of Strategic Development Dr. Augustine Eigbe, the foundation characterized the assault as “an act that borders on attempted murder” and a gross violation of the child’s fundamental rights.
“This incident is not an isolated case. Earlier this year, in February, a student at a well-known Islamic school in Lafia reportedly died after being flogged, yet that matter remains unresolved,” the statement noted.
The group has called on Governor Abdullahi Sule to intervene immediately, urging him to ensure Ukasha’s safety and initiate a thorough investigation into the abuse, as well as prosecute the guardian to deter similar acts in the future.
“We cannot continue to normalize brutality under the guise of discipline or religious beliefs. A society that fails to protect its children cannot safeguard its future.”
