The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested two Islamic clerics in Owo, Ondo State, over allegations of severe physical abuse inflicted on two minor boys placed under their care for religious and formal education.
The arrests were confirmed in a statement issued on Thursday, February 5, 2026, by the Ondo State Public Relations Officer of the NSCDC, Mr Daniel Aidamenbor. According to the statement, the suspects were apprehended following a formal complaint lodged by a child-rights advocacy organisation, the Kids and Teens Resource Centre.
The suspects were identified as Adebodun Muideen, 30, the head of Al-Balaagul-Mubeen Arabic and Islamic Centre, and Oladejo Musiliu, 35, who runs the Abdullah Arabic and Islamic Centre, both located in Owo. The clerics were accused of subjecting the minors to brutal punishment that resulted in deep injuries to their bodies.
Aidamenbor explained that the incident came to light on Wednesday after a class teacher observed multiple injuries on the two boys during school hours. Alarmed by the severity and extent of the wounds, the teacher immediately alerted the Kids and Teens Resource Centre, which subsequently escalated the matter to the NSCDC.
Preliminary investigations by the corps revealed that the two children were sent to Owo by their parents, who reside in Osun State, to pursue Qur’anic education alongside conventional schooling. The arrangement, according to investigators, was meant to provide the boys with balanced religious and academic instruction under the supervision of the clerics.
However, the NSCDC said the situation took a disturbing turn when one of the minors reportedly returned to the Islamic school with a Vivo Android mobile phone and could not satisfactorily explain how he obtained it. The inability of the child to account for the phone allegedly triggered suspicion among the clerics.
During questioning, the second boy was also implicated in the matter, prompting the suspects to allegedly resort to extreme and unlawful disciplinary measures. Aidamenbor said the clerics reportedly used a heated cutlass to flog the children on their backs and buttocks, inflicting deep wounds and visible scars.
“The injuries sustained by the victims were severe and consistent with violent physical abuse,” the NSCDC spokesperson said. “Medical and eyewitness accounts indicate that the punishment went far beyond any form of lawful or reasonable discipline.”
Aidamenbor described the act as a gross violation of the Child Rights Act and the Ondo State Child Protection Law, both of which strictly prohibit torture, inhuman treatment, and all forms of physical abuse against children.
“The act is a total violation of the Child Rights Act and the Ondo State Child Protection Law,” the statement read. “The suspects have confessed to the offence and will be charged to court for assault and child abuse.”
The NSCDC said the victims have since been placed under protective care, while arrangements are being made to ensure they receive proper medical treatment and psychological support.
Reacting to the incident, the corps warned religious institutions, parents, and guardians against the use of unlawful and violent punishment on children, stressing that no cultural, religious, or disciplinary justification can excuse acts of violence against minors.
“Acts of violence against children, no matter the justification, constitute criminal offences punishable under Nigerian law,” Aidamenbor said. “Religious leaders and caregivers must understand that discipline must never cross the line into abuse.”
He emphasised that while religious and moral instruction remains an important part of child development, such responsibilities must be exercised within the confines of the law and with respect for the dignity and rights of the child.
The NSCDC spokesperson also commended the swift intervention of the executive director and staff of the Kids and Teens Resource Centre, noting that their prompt response helped prevent further harm to the victims and ensured that the matter was properly reported.
“The role of civil society organisations in protecting vulnerable children cannot be overstated,” Aidamenbor said. “Their vigilance and courage in reporting this case have reinforced the importance of community involvement in child protection.”
He urged members of the public to remain alert and proactive in reporting suspected cases of child abuse or neglect to relevant security agencies, social welfare departments, or recognised advocacy groups.
According to him, the NSCDC remains committed to enforcing child protection laws and ensuring that offenders are held accountable, regardless of their social or religious standing.
“This arrest sends a clear message that no one is above the law,” Aidamenbor added. “The Corps will continue to work with stakeholders to safeguard the rights and welfare of children across Ondo State and beyond.”
Child rights advocates have repeatedly raised concerns over the treatment of minors in some informal religious learning centres, particularly where oversight is weak and caregivers operate without adequate regulation. Experts warn that such environments can expose children to abuse under the guise of discipline or moral correction.
The latest incident has renewed calls for stronger monitoring of religious and informal educational institutions, as well as increased public awareness of child protection laws.
As investigations continue, the NSCDC said it will ensure that due process is followed and that justice is served in line with existing legal frameworks. The suspects are expected to be arraigned in court in the coming days.
Meanwhile, authorities have reassured parents and guardians that safeguarding children remains a top priority, urging them to thoroughly vet institutions and individuals entrusted with the care and education of their wards.
