Kano ministry rescues 19‑month‑old boy from alleged abuse and neglect by foster mother

The Kano State Ministry of Women Affairs, Children and Persons with Special Needs has rescued a 19‑month‑old boy named Musa from alleged abuse and neglect in the Tsamiya Babba area of the state.

The rescue came after local residents reported that the child was being maltreated by his foster mother, even though the mother had legally obtained custody from the Nassarawa Children’s Home.

Preliminary investigations showed that the toddler was severely malnourished and was often locked indoors alone for hours. Residents also claimed that the child was frequently left unattended in unsafe conditions.

In response to the reports, Commissioner for Women Affairs Amina Abdullahi ordered an investigation to be led by Acting Permanent Secretary Muhammad Sambo Iliyasu.

Investigators identified the foster mother as Aisha Shuaibu, who admitted leaving the child alone on three occasions but could not explain the multiple scars found on the boy’s body.

The case has been transferred to the Gezawa Divisional Police Headquarters, while the suspect remains in custody pending further investigation.

The commissioner condemned child abuse and warned that the ministry would intensify monitoring of foster homes across the state.