Justice for Bashariya: MURIC advocates action against Fauziya Gidado over alleged abuse …. Condemns rising cases of child abuse and domestic slavery

By our Reporter

The Kano State Chapter of the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has reacted with outrage to the reported abuse of a 14-year-old girl, Bashariya, allegedly tortured and dehumanized by one Fauziya Gidado. The Islamic human rights organization has petitioned the police, demanding swift investigation and prosecution of the suspect.

In a disturbing 3-minute, 16-second video now circulating widely online, a visibly malnourished and half-naked Bashariya is seen narrating the cruelty she suffered in the hands of her supposed guardian, who allegedly subjected her to inhumane treatment, including physical torture and starvation.

The young girl and her family had earlier fled bandit attacks in Zamfara State and sought refuge at an Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in the Gwiwa Eka area of Sokoto State. Fauziya Gidado reportedly took Bashariya from the camp to Abuja under the pretense of helping her, only to expose her to exploitation and abuse.

Upon viewing the distressing footage, the Kano Chapter of MURIC immediately contacted its Sokoto counterpart to verify the incident. Following confirmation, a formal complaint was lodged on 7th June, 2025, with the Sokoto State Police Command via Mansur & Mansur Attorneys, a legal firm based in Sokoto.

In a statement released on Friday, 13th June 2025, MURIC’s Kano State Chairman, Malam Hassan Sani Indabawa, strongly condemned the incident and called for justice:

“It is horrifying to see a child who survived the trauma of violence in her home state only to fall into the hands of a vicious abuser. The level of cruelty inflicted on Bashariya is both inhumane and criminal. We are demanding that the police leave no stone unturned in investigating and prosecuting Fauziya Gidado.”

He added that preliminary findings indicated that Mrs. Fauziya Gidado has a history of similar abuses against domestic staff, which made this case even more urgent.

“This woman is known for erratic, violent behavior, consistent with symptoms of Intermittent Explosive Disorder (IED). She poses a serious threat to others, particularly minors in her custody.”

MURIC expressed appreciation for the prompt responses by agencies such as the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), the Network Against Child Trafficking, Abuse and Labour (NACTAL), and various women and child rights advocacy groups.

The statement also emphasized the importance of rehabilitating Bashariya, including providing her with adequate care and access to education to rebuild her life.

“This is about protecting our children and sending a strong message that abuse will not be tolerated. Justice must be served, not just for Bashariya, but to deter future violators.”