Kebbi Doctor Uncovers HIV in Children From Sexual Abuse; Parents Warned

A medical professional affiliated with the Kebbi Medical Centre in Birnin Kebbi has brought to light distressing cases of children contracting HIV following sexual assault. Dr. Mustapha Mohammed, who shared these incidents on his Facebook page on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, highlighted the increasing vulnerability of children.

Dr. Mohammed detailed the case of a seven-year-old orphan boy brought to the children's clinic by his mother. The boy presented with a six-month history of chronic diarrhea and five months of significant weight loss. Despite receiving various over-the-counter medications and herbal concoctions, his condition showed no improvement. Further medical examination revealed rectal prolapse, prompting urgent investigations for Tuberculosis and sexually transmitted infections, specifically HIV. Tragically, the child tested positive for both diseases. His mother, however, tested negative for HIV. During subsequent questioning, the young boy disclosed that a man had repeatedly subjected him to anal sex, threatening his life if he ever revealed the abuse. The doctor noted the mother's initial struggle to comprehend, as she had spent her resources on a 'babalawo' who attributed her son's illness to an attacking witch.

The doctor also recounted a second poignant case involving a 15-year-old girl. This teenager, who had lost her mother a year prior, was forced to hawk food for her stepmother. During this period, she endured sexual abuse from multiple men, leading to her contracting HIV.

Dr. Mohammed expressed his profound concern, stating, "The first half of 2026 is gone but two similar tragic case scenarios of Child Abuse (S3xually) stay with me. Nowadays, both genders are not spared.” Both child victims have since been transferred to healthcare professionals at the Sexual Abuse Clinic (SAC) for comprehensive management and to ensure the perpetrators face justice.

In light of these incidents, Dr. Mohammed strongly advised parents and guardians to prioritize their children's protection. His recommendations include:

1. Fostering a close relationship with children to encourage them to report any inappropriate behaviour from adults.

2. Educating children about 'bad touch' so they can identify and report such incidents.

3. Vigilantly questioning any suspicious behaviour directed towards their children.

4. Monitoring where their children play and with whom they associate.

5. Reporting any suspected acts of abuse to a SAC clinic or the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP).

He concluded with a plea for a safer society, saying, “Some people are monsters and can traumatize you and your child (or children) for life… SPEAK OUT FOR CHILDREN BECAUSE THEIR VULNERABLE. May protect us and our children against monsters. May we have a country where children are safe. May we have a country where peace and justice shall reign. May God bless Nigeria.”