The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) has confirmed the arrest of a man accused of beating a toddler in Ikorodu. The suspect was taken into police custody on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, following a viral video that sparked widespread public outrage.
DSVA Confirms Arrest and Custody of Suspect
According to The Punch, the DSVA said it acted swiftly after receiving a report on Tuesday about a video circulating on social media. The footage showed a man striking a young child repeatedly on the head and body with what appeared to be a charger cable. The agency activated its response protocol after the video triggered calls for the man's arrest.
The agency immediately contacted the child's mother, who said she had already reported the incident at the Imota Police Station. Officers at the Family Support Unit further informed the DSVA that the mother had first brought the matter to the Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Agency, which then initiated the arrest process.
"Following the report, the alleged perpetrator was apprehended on Wednesday, 23rd September, 2026, and is currently in police custody, as the matter has now been escalated for further investigation," the DSVA said in a statement, as reported by PM News.
Child and Mother Referred for Medical Care
The child and her mother were referred to a General Hospital for immediate medical attention and further assessment. The DSVA said it would continue monitoring the case and providing assistance to the family.
Before the arrest was confirmed, the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) had said it was working with relevant security agencies to identify and locate the individual seen in the video, with a view to prosecution.
Lagos Government Restates Zero-Tolerance Policy
The Lagos State Government, led by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, used the occasion to restate its "ZERO TOLERANCE" position on all forms of child maltreatment. The government said it remained committed to strengthening child safeguarding systems and ensuring survivors receive adequate protection and support.
The DSVA thanked members of the public for reporting the matter and urged anyone with information about child maltreatment cases to contact the Child Protection Unit of the Ministry of Youth and Social Development or the DSVA directly. The agency's full statement on the incident was shared via X (formerly Twitter).
