Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has ordered the immediate prosecution of Bukar Modu, a Quranic teacher captured in a viral video allegedly assaulting a minor, Bashir Gaji.
The disturbing footage, which has triggered widespread outrage on social media, reportedly shows Modu physically abusing the young boy. Security operatives arrested the suspect on Saturday night, April 12, 2025, at Umarari in Maiduguri.
The video which has sparked outrage across social media platforms, highlights a grave violation of children’s rights.
Governor Zulum has emphasised that his administration will not tolerate any form of abuse or exploitation of minors and directed swift action to bring the perpetrator to justice.
“This heinous act is an affront on our values and a betrayal of our duty to protect our children, students and minors who are under our guardianship,” Governor Zulum said. “We cannot tolerate such actions perpetually repeating itself. I am directing the relevant authorities to move swiftly and ensure that this individual faces the full extent of the law. Our children deserve a safe environment to grow and become meaningful members of society.”
The Governor, however, directed the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development to devise modalities for increased community awareness programmes to educate families and local traditional teachers and guardians on the proper means of enforcing discipline on children.
Meanwhile, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum met with the little Bashir Gaji on Sunday at the Government House. He announced that he would provide a fully furnished house for Bukar and his family and a scholarship to cover his education.
Little Gaji’s family currently live in an IDP camp in Monguno after his father was assassinated by Boko Haram insurgents.
