Two children in Ondo State are currently receiving medical care after they were allegedly assaulted by an Islamic cleric, popularly known as an Alfa, in an incident residents have described as deeply troubling.

The alleged abuse occurred in a community in Owo, where the cleric was said to have physically punished the children over claims of misconduct. Sources in the area said the punishment left the children with noticeable injuries.
The situation came to light after concerned teachers at the school attended by the children reported the matter, prompting a rescue intervention by the Kids & Teens Resource Centre, a non-governmental organisation focused on child welfare.
Operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Ondo State Command, subsequently arrested the suspect following a formal complaint. The children were taken to a medical facility, where they are undergoing treatment.
The NSCDC spokesperson in the state confirmed the arrest, stressing that the command has zero tolerance for violence, particularly against minors. The spokesperson added that the suspect has been charged to court and will face prosecution.
The Executive Director of Kids & Teens Resource Centre condemned the incident, noting that the children were subjected to excessive punishment that resulted in visible wounds. The organisation urged religious institutions, guardians, and parents to adopt lawful and humane methods of discipline, emphasising that violence against children is both harmful and unacceptable.