Step-Mother Burns 5-Year-Old Over Bedwetting

In a harrowing case that has reignited public outcry over child abuse, a housewife in Bauchi State has been accused of burning her five-year-old stepdaughter as punishment for nocturnal bedwetting.

The accused, Rabi Nuhu, reportedly resides in the Magama Gumau community within Torono Local Government Area.

According to multiple sources, she allegedly inflicted burn injuries on the child’s thighs and some other parts of her body, purportedly using a heated object, after the little girl urinated in bed.

Confirming the development, the Bauchi State Police Command said it took Nuhu into custody following the report.

The matter was initially filed at the Toro Divisional Police station before being escalated to state headquarters for further investigation.

Law enforcement officials have stated that some community members had attempted to resolve the issue locally, but police intervention transferred the case into the formal justice system.

The young victim is said to have sustained serious burns to her thighs. Neighbours, alarmed by her screams, reportedly intervened and urged that the case be reported to authorities.

She was subsequently admitted to Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH), Bauchi for treatment.

One local child rights activist, Kabiru Abdulkadir, told the press that the injuries left the child unable to pass urine or stool normally, and that the stench from the wounds had made life unbearable for the household.

This case comes amid growing concerns nationwide about incidents of child abuse, particularly in domestic settings, and cruel punishment tied to misunderstanding or neglect of children’s developmental issues.

Under Nigeria’s Child Rights Act, subjecting minors to physical torture is illegal and punishable.

However, enforcement remains uneven in many regions. Human rights organisations have consistently urged State governments and Federal authorities to reinforce accountability and improve protection for vulnerable children.

As the Bauchi State Police continue their investigation, the public awaits a full report and official statement on whether charges will be filed against Nuhu.