Lagos: Police arrest man in viral video beating toddler for failing to read
A Nigerian man was arrested following a viral video that showed him physically assaulting a toddler for failing to read. The disturbing footage, which gained widespread attention on social media, depicted the man striking the child’s head and body with what appeared to be a charger cable.
The incident sparked significant outrage, prompting many citizens to call for the suspect’s arrest and prosecution. The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) confirmed the man’s apprehension, which took place on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, after the agency received a report about the incident and reached out to the child’s mother.
In a statement, the agency noted that the mother informed officials that the incident had previously been reported to the Imota Police Station. According to the DSVA, officers at the Family Support Unit confirmed that the matter had also been reported to the Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Agency.
The agency stated, “Following the report, the alleged perpetrator was apprehended on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, and is currently in police custody, as the matter has now been escalated for further investigation.” The survivor and her mother have been referred to the General Hospital for immediate medical attention and further assessment.
Investigations into the incident are ongoing.
