The Anambra State Police Command has obtained a court order remanding a husband and wife, Chukwudi Chukwuyere, 40, and Chisom Chukwuyere, 30, in a correctional facility over allegations of abusing a 10-year-old boy living in their care.
The case gained widespread attention after a disturbing video of the child, identified as Chiziterem, circulated on social media. The footage showed severe burn injuries and wounds across his body, which were allegedly inflicted by his guardians in Awada, Obosi, located in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State.
The victim was rescued and is currently receiving medical care under the protection of the state government.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the spokesperson for the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed that the suspects were arraigned after preliminary investigations into the matter were completed.
Ikenga said, “The Anambra State Police Command has secured the remand of Mr Chukwudi Chukwuyere ‘M’ aged 40 years and Mrs Chisom Chukwuyere ‘F’ aged 30 years in a Correctional Centre over their alleged involvement in the abuse of a 10-year-old boy in Isiowulu, Anambra State.
The suspects were arraigned in court following the conclusion of preliminary investigations into the case, which attracted public concern after reports and video footage of the victim surfaced on social media.
To this end, the Anambra State Police Command commends the residents of the area for their vigilance, cooperation, and timely provision of information that led to the rescue of the child and ensured that he received the necessary medical attention, while the suspects were apprehended.
“Anambra State Police Command remains committed to promoting justice and the protection of human rights in line with the vision of the Inspector General of Police. Further developments would be communicated accordingly.”
The incident sparked public outrage after the video emerged online, prompting swift intervention by the Anambra State Government.
Meanwhile, the Anambra State First Lady, Nonye Soludo, has expressed satisfaction with the progress made in the child’s recovery. During a follow-up visit to the hospital, she received updates from medical personnel indicating that the boy’s condition had stabilized.
Soludo described the child’s improvement as evidence of the dedication of healthcare workers as well as the support, prayers, and goodwill shown by members of the public.
After assessing the victim during her second visit, the First Lady praised the medical team handling his treatment and expressed confidence in his continued recovery.