Lagos State Government has rescued a three-year-old child who was allegedly abandoned and neglected by her mother due to claims that she was a witch, following widespread public outcry after a distressing video went viral on social media. The child, found in a severely malnourished condition and wearing only a diaper, was seen drinking from an unclean container in a video that sparked outrage across Nigeria. The incident, reported to have occurred in the Ipaja area of Lagos, drew immediate attention after a social media user identified as @TheGrandmaBoy shared the footage and raised alarm over the child’s welfare. The post alleged that the mother had abandoned the toddler, believing she was cursed and deserved to die.
The social media post, which quickly gained traction, detailed the child’s dire living conditions and called on government agencies to intervene. It specifically mentioned the child’s malnutrition and unhygienic environment, urging authorities to act swiftly. Although the claims were not independently verified at the time of the post, they were enough to prompt a rapid response from state officials. The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Print Media, Ridwan Ajetunmobi, confirmed on Sunday that the Lagos State Government had launched a rescue operation.
Ajetunmobi stated that the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, led a team to the location in Ipaja to assess the situation firsthand. Upon arrival, the team confirmed the child’s poor health and immediate need for medical and psychological care. The child has since been taken into state custody and is receiving necessary medical attention and protection. The Lagos State Government has assured the public that the child is now safe and under official supervision.
Meanwhile, the police have begun an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the alleged abandonment and neglect. Authorities are working to determine the full facts, including whether any criminal charges will be filed against the mother. The government has also pledged to provide updates as the investigation progresses, emphasizing its commitment to protecting vulnerable children. This case has reignited discussions about child welfare, superstition, and the role of social media in exposing human rights abuses.
The rescue operation highlights the growing role of digital platforms in holding authorities accountable and prompting swift government action. As the investigation continues, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by harmful beliefs and the importance of safeguarding children from abuse. The Lagos State Government’s intervention underscores its dedication to child protection and social justice, setting a precedent for future cases.
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