The Edo State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development has taken 11-year-old Rejoice Godswill into protective custody following allegations that she was severely abused by her mother and stepfather in the New Benin area of Benin City.

The case came to light after a viral video recorded by human rights activist Comrade Lucky Orukpe showed the child with visible injuries. In the video, the girl’s mother, identified as Beauty, allegedly admitted to burning part of her daughter’s buttocks with melted nylon as punishment for what she described as stubborn behaviour.

Following the report, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Eugenia Abdallah, ordered the arrest of the child’s mother and stepfather to allow for a full investigation. The suspects are currently in police custody at the New Benin Divisional Police Station and are expected to be transferred to the Edo State Police Command for further investigation.

The ministry said the child is receiving medical treatment, psychosocial support, and temporary shelter while investigations continue. Hon. Abdallah also commended Comrade Lucky Orukpe for his efforts in protecting vulnerable children and promoting humanitarian causes.