The Borno State Police command have arrested a schoolteacher for allegedly assaulting a 10-year-old student in Maiduguri. The teacher, identified as Bukar Modu, aged 30, was arrested after a disturbing video of the incident gained attention online, prompting swift action from law enforcement and the local community.
According to a statement released by the Borno State Police Command on Monday, the incident happened in the Bulabulin Alajeri area, along Baga Road in Maiduguri. The Command’s spokesperson, Kenneth Daso, said the case was brought to light after a viral video surfaced, showing Modu physically assaulting the minor, Bashir Babaji.
In the video, Modu is seen flogging the boy while another unidentified child poured water and sand over the victim. Despite the young boy’s screams and visible struggle, the teacher kept him pinned down with his foot to prevent any escape.
Daso noted that the event actually took place on March 16 but only came to public attention after the video circulated widely online over the weekend. He added that public outrage over the video helped speed up the investigation and eventual arrest of the suspect. Community members and local security outfits, including the Civilian Joint Task Force, were involved in locating and apprehending the teacher.
“The Borno State Police Command wishes to inform the general public of the arrest of one Bukar Modu, 30 years old, in connection with a viral video that surfaced on social media showing the physical abuse of a minor in the Bulabulin Alajeri area along Baga-Road, Maiduguri,” the statement read.
Preliminary findings revealed that Modu assaulted the child because he allegedly skipped class. The boy is a student at the school where Modu teaches.
Following the incident, the child was taken to a nearby hospital for medical check-up and treatment. Authorities have confirmed that the teacher remains in police custody as the investigation continues. He is expected to be formally charged in court once the investigation is concluded.
“The victim has since been taken to the hospital for medical examination and evaluation while the suspect is in custody. The case is still under investigation and will be charged in court,” Daso noted.
The police also called on members of the public to avoid spreading misinformation or making statements that could interfere with the investigation. The Command assured that the matter is being handled with seriousness and that justice will be served.
