In Lafia, Nasarawa State, a young orphan named Ukasha was reportedly subjected to severe beating by his uncle and guardian, Mai-Naira Abdullahi. The incident has sparked public outrage due to its disturbing nature.

On Saturday, April 12, 2025, Ukasha attended a naming ceremony in the Galafima Phase II Area of Tudun Amba, Lafia. While dancing alongside women and children, he unknowingly provoked his uncle, who claimed the act went against his personal beliefs.

Eyewitnesses revealed that the child was mercilessly beaten, leaving him with visible injuries on his back, face, stomach, and sides. Ukasha shared that no medical attention or pain relief was given to him after the ordeal, which added to the shock of the situation.

The Men Against R3pe Foundation (MARF), a rights group, condemned the brutal act in a statement. According to MARF, this level of abuse is akin to attempted murder and a grave violation of fundamental child rights.

The foundation also highlighted a similar case from February 2025, where a student at an Islamic school in Lafia was allegedly flogged to death without any justice served. This incident further underscores the ongoing issue of unchecked abuse.

MARF urged Governor Abdullahi Sule to act swiftly by rescuing Ukasha, initiating a thorough investigation, and prosecuting the perpetrator. The organization emphasized the need for stronger child protection laws to prevent such incidents in the future.

In their statement, MARF reminded society of its responsibility to shield children from harm. “Brutality cannot be justified as discipline or religious expression. A community that fails to protect its children endangers its future.”