A man identified as Paul has been arrested in Ondo State for allegedly pressing a hot iron on his 10-year-old daughter’s private part as punishment for bed-wetting.

The incident reportedly occurred in Upemen Community, Owo Local Government Area of the state.

The Ondo State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr Seun Osamaye, disclosed this on Tuesday during a visit to the girl at the Federal Medical Centre, Owo, where she is receiving treatment.

According to Osamaye, the state government intervened after the case was reported to the ministry and ensured that the child received immediate medical attention.

She said the girl suffered severe injuries and would undergo a second surgery involving skin grafting.

“The minor, whose father assaulted her by pressing hot iron on her private part as punishment for bedwetting, is to undergo a second surgery involving skin grafting at the Federal Medical Centre, Owo.”

The commissioner added that the father had been arrested and handed over to the police for prosecution.

She also commended Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for his intervention and continued interest in the welfare of the child.

Child requires further surgery

The Medical Director of FMC Owo, Dr Adeyinka Aiyeyemi, who received the commissioner and her delegation, said the girl would require another skin-grafting procedure as part of her recovery.

He also recommended appropriate psychotherapy and psychosocial support for the child’s parents to help address the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Meanwhile, the Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, confirmed the arrest.

He said detectives from the ‘A’ Division in Owo swiftly responded after receiving the report and arrested the suspect.

“Upon receipt of the information, detectives from ‘A’ Division, Owo, swiftly mobilised to the scene, arrested the suspect without delay and took him into custody.”

Jimoh added that the case had been transferred to the gender unit for discreet investigation and further necessary action.

“The case is being transferred to the gender unit for discreet investigation and further necessary action in line with established procedures.”

The incident has sparked concern over the use of severe physical punishment against children, with authorities reiterating the need to protect the safety, dignity and wellbeing of minors.