Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has ordered the immediate prosecution of Bukar Modu, a man seen in a widely circulated video allegedly molesting a minor, Bashir Gaji.
Following public outrage over the video, security operatives swiftly arrested Modu on Saturday night in Umarari, Maiduguri. Governor Zulum issued the directive for his prosecution on Sunday after meeting with the young victim at the Government House.
Condemning the act, Governor Zulum described it as “heinous” and a direct attack on the values of the state. “This is a betrayal of our duty to protect children under our guardianship. We cannot allow such acts to continue. The perpetrator must face the full weight of the law,” he declared.
Zulum also instructed the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development to intensify community sensitization programs aimed at educating families and traditional teachers on child discipline methods that do not involve abuse.
In a gesture of compassion and support, the Governor announced the donation of a fully furnished house to little Bashir and his family, along with a full educational scholarship.
The boy and his relatives currently reside in an IDP camp in Monguno after the death of his father, who was killed by Boko Haram insurgents.
Governor Zulum reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to safeguarding children’s rights and ensuring justice for victims of abuse.