A father identified as Mr Paul has been arrested by the Ondo State Police Command after allegedly assaulting his 10-year-old daughter with a hot iron as punishment for bed-wetting.
The incident reportedly occurred in Upemen Community, Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State.
The Ondo State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr Seun Osamaye, disclosed the development on Tuesday during a visit to the child at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Owo, where she is currently receiving treatment.
According to the commissioner, the girl suffered severe injuries after her father allegedly pressed a hot iron on her private part because she had wet the bed.
Osamaye said the state government intervened immediately after receiving a report of the incident and ensured that the child was taken to the hospital for proper medical attention.
She disclosed that the child had already undergone her first surgery but would require another procedure involving skin grafting as part of her continued treatment and recovery.
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“The Ondo State Government under the leadership of Dr Lucky Aiyedatiwa is committed to the protection and welfare of children,” the commissioner said, stressing that the government would continue to prioritise the safety, dignity and wellbeing of children across the state.
The Medical Director of FMC Owo, Dr Adeyinka Aiyeyemi, commended the state government for its intervention and recommended appropriate psychotherapy and psychosocial support for the child and her parents.
Meanwhile, the Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, confirmed the arrest of the suspect.
Jimoh said detectives attached to the ‘A’ Division in Owo swiftly responded after receiving the report, arrested the suspect and took him into custody.
He added that the case had been transferred to the gender unit for discreet investigation and further necessary action in accordance with established procedures.
The incident has renewed concerns over harmful forms of corporal punishment against children and the need for parents and guardians to adopt safer and more constructive approaches to discipline.
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