By Bilesanmi Abayomi
A concerned neighbor has raised an alarm over the alleged continuous abuse of a 13-year-old boy, Malik Banjoko, by his father, Mr. Lekan Banjoko. The disturbing case was brought to light over the weekend by an official of the School-Based Management Committees (SBMCs), who urged for immediate intervention to safeguard the boy’s life.
The SBMC official, who spoke to KosofePost, revealed that Malik’s mother, a resident of No. 5 Adekoya Street, Shomolu, Lagos, approached him in tears to recount her ordeal. She alleged that her husband’s brutal treatment of their children had reached unbearable levels. The official stated, “She came crying bitterly, narrating how Mr. Lekan Banjoko has been battering and injuring her children. She said she can no longer bear it. As an SBMC official, I am reporting this matter for the safety of the children and their mother. She’s so scared of him because of his brutality.”
When contacted, Malik’s mother neither confirmed nor denied the allegations. However, Malik’s father appeared unbothered by the accusations. Speaking to KosofePost, he repeatedly questioned why he was being asked about his actions, smiling as he remarked that others had previously called him about the issue. He insisted that he had nothing further to say.
The Lagos State Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy explicitly defines physical abuse as acts of violence such as punching, kicking, whipping, or burning, whether or not they result in visible injury. These acts are deemed unacceptable regardless of claims of discipline.
Omoba Rasheed Awofeso, General Secretary of the Child Protection Network (CPN), disclosed that representatives of the organization are already addressing the case in the affected area. “The safety and welfare of children remain a top priority, and we are working to ensure proper intervention,” he said.
As this disturbing case unfolds, concerned parties continue to advocate for immediate action to protect Malik and his family.