Ondo girl abused by father to undergo second surgery

By Boye Oyeyemi

A minor, Paul Blessed, who was allegedly assaulted by her father with a pressing iron over bedwetting, is set to undergo a second surgery at the Federal Medical Centre, Owo, Ondo State, as part of efforts to restore her health.

The state Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr Seun Bosede Osamaye, disclosed this during a follow-up visit to the hospital to assess the girl’s recovery from her first operation.

Osamaye, who represented Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, said the state government intervened after the incident to ensure that the victim received medical treatment and other necessary support.

According to her, the child sustained severe injuries after her father allegedly used a pressing iron on her private parts as punishment for bedwetting.

The medical team at FMC Owo informed the commissioner that the girl would require another operation involving skin grafting as her treatment continues. The hospital also advised that the child’s parents undergo appropriate psychotherapy.

In the same vein, Osamaye commended Aiyedatiwa for his sustained interest in the girl’s welfare and assured that the government would continue to prioritise the protection, safety and dignity of children across the state.

She also urged residents to promptly report suspected cases of child abuse to relevant authorities, stressing that the government remained determined to pursue justice for the victim and protect children from violence and maltreatment.

Reacting, the Chief Medical Director of the hospital, Dr Aiyeyemi, commended the state government for its support, saying the intervention had helped create an enabling environment for medical professionals to provide effective care.