The Kaduna State Government has rescued a seven-year-old boy, Abubakar Sani, from his abusive father in Lere Local Council after he was subjected to severe maltreatment that led to the amputation of both legs.

According to the Ministry of Human Services and Social Development, the boy’s father, identified as Sani Tanimi Maishago, allegedly tied the child’s legs and poured hot water on them as punishment for stealing biscuits.

Following a medical assessment at Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital, doctors determined that the only way to save the boy’s life was to amputate both legs below the knees.

Commissioner for Human Services and Social Development, Hajiya Salisu, who visited the victim in hospital, expressed deep sorrow over the abuse. She disclosed that the child had also been locked up for over 20 days without proper food by his father and stepmother.

The commissioner confirmed that both the father and stepmother had been arrested by the police and assured that they would be prosecuted upon the conclusion of investigations.

She stressed the state’s commitment to enforcing its Child Protection Law, warning that child abuse, domestic violence and rape would not be tolerated.

The Chief Medical Director of Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital, Dr Abdulkadir Musa, explained that the amputation had resulted in a permanent disability, but added that the child could be fitted with artificial limbs in future.

He called on parents to exercise patience and restraint when correcting their children, warning that violent discipline could lead to irreversible consequences.