🎧
Listen to this article
The Lagos State Government has confirmed the arrest of a suspect accused of brutally assaulting a toddler in the Ikorodu area of the state, disclosing that he remains in police custody as criminal investigations progress.
The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) revealed that law enforcement officers apprehended the suspect on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, roughly 24 hours after public outrage alerted state officials to the viral assault footage.
In an official statement released on Wednesday, the DSVA explained that it “immediately activated its response protocol” upon receiving the report and successfully reached out to the victim’s mother.
The agency noted that during initial engagements, the mother explained that the case had been formally reported at the Imota Police Station.
“Upon contacting officers at the Family Support Unit, the Agency was informed that the survivor’s mother had initially reported the matter to the Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Agency,” the statement said.
“Following the report, the alleged perpetrator was apprehended on Wednesday, 23rd September, 2026, and is currently in police custody, as the matter has now been escalated for further investigation,” the agency added.
The state agency further confirmed that both the injured child and her mother received immediate medical intervention.
“The survivor and her mother have also been referred to the General Hospital for immediate medical attention and further assessment,” the agency said.
The police intervention followed intense public outcry across social media platforms after a video surfaced showing a man repeatedly striking a toddler on the head and torso using an object resembling a charging cable.
Before the suspect’s arrest, the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) indicated that it was collaborating with sister security agencies to track down and prosecute the individual featured in the footage.
Reassuring the public, the DSVA affirmed that it will keep close tabs on the legal proceedings while offering continuous support to the affected family.
“We appreciate members of the public who brought this matter to our attention,” the agency said.
Reaffirming its zero-tolerance policy against all forms of child maltreatment, the Lagos State Government restated its commitment to reinforcing child protection networks and guaranteeing comprehensive assistance for assault victims.
State authorities urged residents to promptly flag instances of child vulnerability and abuse through the DSVA or the Child Protection Unit within the Ministry of Youth and Social Development.
No Comments