Bashariya’s parents had fled violence and banditry in their home state, seeking refuge in an internally displaced persons (IDP) camp near Gwiwa Eka.

A harrowing case of child abuse has come to light in Abuja involving 14-year-old Bashariya, a displaced girl from Zamfara State.

Bashariya’s parents had fled violence and banditry in their home state, seeking refuge in an internally displaced persons (IDP) camp near Gwiwa Eka.

Their daughter’s situation took a tragic turn when Fauziya, the wife of Barrister Abbakar Zaki, a judge in Sokoto, hired the girl as a maid and took her to Abuja. Instead of the promised care and shelter, Bashariya was subjected to horrific abuse.

According to disturbing video evidence and testimonies from the girl’s family, Fauziya allegedly starved and beat the young girl, even subjecting her to the gruesome ordeal of being bathed with fire. Bashariya was reportedly rescued by sympathetic neighbors who provided her with emergency care.

The girl’s father shared a chilling account of Fauziya’s arrogance, claiming that she told him there was nothing authorities could do against her and her husband, as they represented “the highest authority.”

When contacted by phone, FCT Police PRO SP Josephine Adeh confirmed that although the incident was not initially reported to the police, the Commissioner of Police has since directed all Divisional Police Officers to urgently locate and arrest the suspect.

The police stressed the need for members of the public to refrain from employing children as domestic workers if they cannot care for them properly.

“He strongly advises members of the public against acts of child abuse and emphasises that anyone who knows they are not capable of properly caring for a child should refrain from taking on such responsibility,” SP Adeh said.

“The public is also encouraged to report incidents of abuse or suspicious behaviour to the police promptly, when you see something, say something. Together, we can ensure the safety and wellbeing of every child in our communities.”

WATCH: Justice For Bashariya: Police Hunt Judge’s Wife Accused Of Horrific Abuse Of Burnt, Starved 14-Year-Old Maid In Abuja Viral Video pic.twitter.com/ixlK0LFFOW

— Sahara Reporters (@SaharaReporters) June 8, 2025