Guardian Arrested For Torture, Pouring Candle Wax on Girl’s Body, Private Parts

A shocking case of child abuse has sparked outrage in Imo State following the arrest of a 38-year-old woman accused of inflicting severe burns on a young girl under her care.

The suspect, identified as Juliet Igwe, was arrested by operatives of the Imo State Police Command after allegations emerged that she poured hot candle wax on the body of a six-year-old girl and deliberately burnt the child’s private parts with candlelight. The woman is also accused of scalding the girl’s hands with hot water, leaving her with serious injuries.

According to the police, the suspect’s arrest followed intelligence received by officers in Ideato North Local Government Area. The command described the alleged acts as cruel, inhumane and unacceptable, assuring that the suspect would be prosecuted upon the conclusion of investigations.

Police spokesperson Henry Okoye said the state Commissioner of Police had directed the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) to take over the case and ensure a thorough investigation.

Reports indicate that the victim, identified only as Onyinyechi, sustained severe burns, including injuries classified by medical experts as third-degree burns. Doctors have reportedly recommended multiple corrective surgical procedures, including debridement and skin grafting, to treat the extensive damage caused by the abuse.

The child was rescued through the intervention of human rights advocates and concerned residents, who alerted authorities to her condition. She is currently receiving medical treatment while efforts continue to ensure her rehabilitation and recovery.

The Imo State Government has reportedly pledged to cover the victim’s medical expenses through its health insurance agency, while child rights advocates have called for swift justice and stronger protection for vulnerable children.

The incident has renewed public concern over cases of child abuse and the enforcement of Nigeria’s Child Rights Act, which guarantees every child protection from torture, abuse, neglect and other forms of inhuman treatment. Authorities have vowed to ensure that those responsible for violating children’s rights are held accountable under the law.