The Lagos State Government has confirmed the arrest of a man accused of abusing a toddler in Ikorodu, saying the suspect is currently in police custody as investigations into the incident continue.
The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) said the alleged perpetrator was arrested on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, a day after it was alerted to a viral social media report showing the alleged abuse.
In a statement, the agency said it immediately activated its response protocol and established contact with the child’s mother. According to the DSVA, the mother had initially reported the matter to the Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Agency, after which it was brought to the attention of officers at the Family Support Unit of the Imota Police Station.
The agency said the suspect was subsequently apprehended and the case escalated for further investigation. It added that the child and her mother had been referred to a General Hospital for immediate medical attention and further assessment.
The development followed the circulation of a video on social media showing a man repeatedly striking a toddler on the head and body with what appeared to be a charger cable, prompting public concern and calls for the suspect’s identification and arrest.
The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons had earlier disclosed that it was working with relevant security agencies to identify and locate the person seen in the video for possible prosecution.
The DSVA said it would continue to monitor the case and provide necessary support to the child and her mother. The agency also urged members of the public to report suspected cases of child abuse to the Child Protection Unit of the Ministry of Youth and Social Development or the DSVA.
The Lagos State Government reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on child abuse and reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening safeguarding systems and ensuring that survivors receive appropriate protection and support.
