Clerics were detained over brutalisation of minors

By Sadiq Abdulfatah

Two Islamic clerics have been detained over infliction of serious bodily injuries of two minors under their care.

Adebodun Muideen (30) of Al-Balaagul-Mubeen Arabic and Islamic Centre, and Oladejo Musiliu (35) of Abdullah Arabic and Islamic Centre have been detained over infliction crucial bodily injuries on two minor under their care.

The two clerics were detained at Olokuta Correctional Centre, Akure, Ondo State and later brought forward at the Magistrate Family Court, Akure Division, on a three-count charge bordering on assault and child abuse.

Disclosed in a statement by Daniel Aidamenbor, the Public Relations Officer for the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Ondo State Command, the clerics were arrested on January 28, 2026, following a petition by a child rights advocacy organisation, Kids and Teen Resource Centre. The petition alleged severe assault, with visible multiple injuries on the bodies of the minors in Owo.

The suspects were charged under Section 3(3)(a) of the Ondo State Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Law, 2021, as well as Sections 255 and 335 of the Criminal Code Law, Cap 37, Vol. 1, Laws of Ondo State, 2006.

Pending the perfection of their bail condition, the court announced that the clerics be detained as requested by defence counsel and adjourned the matter to April 9, 2026, for trial.

Source: The Reporter Nigeria