Tragedy Unfolds as Step Mother Uses Electric Iron on Step Son Over N200 Misplacement
In a distressing incident that unfolded on the evening of October 13, 2023, at No. 9 Ekpenyong Ekpenyong Street, Calabar South LGA, a stepmother inflicted severe harm on her 10-year-old stepson, Precious Daniel Offiong, over the alleged misplacement of a mere two hundred naira.
The young boy, a student at Santa Maria Primary School, had been living under the same roof as his stepmother, Mrs. Mary Ita Edet, since the tender age of four. Reports indicate that this unfortunate episode was part of a broader pattern of maltreatment endured by Precious at the hands of his stepmother.
The 10-year-old, often left neglected, was accused of the minor financial mishap, which led to a brutal beating by Mrs. Edet. Shockingly, the incident escalated to the point where the stepmother resorted to using an electric iron, connected to an electrical source, to burn the child all over his body.
This shocking act of violence has sent shockwaves through the community, prompting immediate action from concerned authorities. Dr. Helen Isamoh Egodo, the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, was alerted to the situation and has vowed to visit the child and his stepmother to ensure that the necessary legal actions are taken. Disturbed neighbors have also come forward, revealing the ongoing torment Precious has suffered at the hands of his stepmother.
Reports suggest that the boy has been subjected to various forms of abuse, including starvation, and often had to trek to church while his stepmother and her daughter used more comfortable means of transportation.
Community members and concerned citizens have voiced their outrage at the incident, emphasizing that no child, whether biological or non-biological, should ever endure such suffering.
The primary focus now is on securing immediate medical attention for Precious, whose injuries are undoubtedly severe. Simultaneously, the stepmother, Mrs. Mary Ita Edet, is expected to face the full force of the law for her alleged heinous actions.
This tragic incident underscores the importance of protecting the rights and well-being of children and serves as a stark reminder that such illegal and inhumane actions will not go unpunished in our society.
The community and authorities are united in their commitment to ensure justice for young Precious Daniel Offiong.
