A man caught on camera brutally flogging a toddler for allegedly being unable to read has been arrested in Lagos, the state government has confirmed.
The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) said the alleged perpetrator was apprehended on Wednesday, 23 September 2026, a day after the agency was alerted to a viral video of the abuse. He is currently in police custody as investigations continue.
The footage, which circulated widely on social media, showed a man repeatedly flogging the toddler (a girl) across the head and body with what appeared to be a charger cable.
The video triggered widespread outrage and calls for the man’s identification and arrest.
The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) had earlier said it was working with security agencies to locate and prosecute the person seen in the footage.
How the Arrest Unfolded
In a statement released on Wednesday, the DSVA said it “immediately activated its response protocol” after receiving the report and established contact with the child’s mother.
The mother disclosed that the matter had already been reported at the Imota Police Station.
Upon contacting officers at the Family Support Unit, the agency was informed that the survivor’s mother had initially reported the matter to the Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Agency.
“Following the report, the alleged perpetrator was apprehended on Wednesday, 23rd September, 2026, and is currently in police custody, as the matter has now been escalated for further investigation,” the DSVA stated.
Medical Assessment Ordered
The agency confirmed that the child and her mother have been referred to the General Hospital for immediate medical attention and further assessment.
“We appreciate members of the public who brought this matter to our attention,” the DSVA said.
The Lagos State Government reiterated its “zero tolerance” stance on all forms of child abuse, saying it remained committed to strengthening safeguarding systems and ensuring survivors receive the support and protection they need.
The agency urged members of the public to report cases of child abuse through the Child Protection Unit of the Ministry of Youth and Social Development or the DSVA.
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