A non-governmental organization, Monsurat Ajoke Foundation, has rescued a five-year-old girl who was allegedly subjected to prolonged physical and emotional abuse by her guardian in Osun State.

The victim, whose father died some years ago, had been in the custody of her aunt, Mrs. Gbemisola Oladepo, who is now in police custody over the alleged abuse.

According to a statement released on Monday, the Executive Director of the Foundation, Monsurat Ajoke, said her team intervened on Saturday, August 22, 2025, after receiving reports about the girl’s ordeal. She explained that the child was discovered with “several bruises and injuries all over her body after continuous physical, emotional, and verbal abuse.”

The intervention, she added, was carried out in collaboration with the Special Adviser to the Osun State Governor on Women Affairs, Children and Social Welfare, Sekinat Halid. The girl was rescued at Oladepo’s residence in Owode-Ede and immediately taken to the Osun State University Teaching Hospital for medical treatment.

Ajoke disclosed that operatives from Zone XI Police Headquarters in Osogbo arrested Oladepo, who is being investigated for child abuse.

While condemning the incident, Ajoke issued a broader call to parents, guardians, and communities to protect children and speak up against abuse.

“Every child, whether yours by birth or entrusted to you, deserves love, dignity, and protection. No situation or hardship justifies abusing a child. If you can’t care for a child, please seek help—do not destroy an innocent life,” she said.

She described the case as a painful reminder of the plight of many children, particularly orphans and those living with relatives, who often suffer in silence.

“Remember that children are tomorrow’s leaders. The way we treat them today shapes their future and the society we all live in. Let us be known as women who heal, nurture, and protect—not those who break children’s spirits,” Ajoke stressed.

She further urged communities not to ignore signs of abuse but to report and support families struggling with childcare, especially widows, single parents, and elderly guardians.

“The Monsurat Ajoke Foundation stands ready to continue its work in sensitization, counselling, and rehabilitation for abused children. Together, we can end child abuse and build a safer Osun State for all children,” she added.