FG Slams Child Flogging in Port Harcourt, Orders Prosecution

The Federal Government has condemned the flogging of children in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, after a video of the incident went viral. The minors were beaten in the name of a spiritual cleansing ritual, sparking outrage nationwide.

Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, called the act criminal and a direct violation of the Child Rights Act. She warned that anyone involved, including parents and guardians, would face prosecution under the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act.

Security agencies, including the Rivers State Police Command and NAPTIP, quickly rescued the victims, who are now under protective custody and receiving medical as well as psychosocial support.

The minister urged citizens to report abuse directly to law enforcement for swift action. She stressed that the Tinubu administration remains committed to protecting children and securing their future.