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… Reiterates Zero Tolerance For Child Abuse
MAIDUGURI, BORNO STATE, NIGERIA – Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has ordered the immediate prosecution of Bukar Modu, a man identified in a disturbing viral video allegedly assaulting a minor – Bashir Gaji.
The suspect, Bukar Modu, reportedly a Quranic teacher, was arrested by security operatives on Saturday night, April 12, 2025, at Umarari in Maiduguri, Borno State.
Governor Zulum issued the prosecution order on Sunday during a meeting with young Bashir Gaji at the Government House in Maiduguri.
The viral footage has sparked widespread outrage across various social media platforms. It underscores a serious violation of children’s rights and has drawn strong condemnation from both the public and rights advocates.
Governor Zulum firmly stated that his administration would not condone any form of abuse or exploitation of minors. He ordered swift legal action to ensure the perpetrator is brought to justice.
“This heinous act is an affront on our values and a betrayal of our duty to protect our children, students, and minors who are under our guardianship.
“We cannot tolerate such actions perpetually repeating themselves. I am directing the relevant authorities to move swiftly and ensure that this individual faces the full extent of the law. Our children deserve a safe environment to grow and become meaningful members of society”, Governor Zulum said.
In response to the incident, Governor Zulum directed the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development to develop and implement community awareness programmes.
These initiatives aim to educate families, traditional teachers, and guardians on appropriate methods of child discipline and protection.
During the meeting at the Government House, Governor Zulum announced his decision to provide a fully furnished house for Bashir Gaji and his family, as well as a scholarship to support the boy’s education.
Bashir Gaji’s family currently resides in an Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in Monguno. The family was displaced following the assassination of Bashir’s father by Boko Haram insurgents.
