Child flogging in Nigeria sparks alarm as psychiatrists warn the practice causes trauma, mental illness, and long-term psychological harm

Experts say the practice, common in prayer houses and deliverance centres, risks creating a generation plagued by trauma, anxiety disorders, and depression.

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They describe the trend as barbaric and psychologically destructive, noting that many children carry the scars—both physical and emotional—well into adulthood.

Dr Yesiru Kareem, a consultant psychiatrist, lamented that rituals disguised as deliverance or exorcism were turning spirituality into abuse. “Spirituality is meant to uplift humanity, not scar it. When flogging is presented as healing, it is like salt becoming poison,” he said.

He warned that children subjected to such punishment may suffer bruises, fractures, low self-esteem, and acute stress reactions.

Long-term, they face risks of anxiety, addiction, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Kareem also stressed that normalising violence as therapy would erode children’s rights and foster a culture of aggression.

Echoing his concerns, child and adolescent psychiatrist Dr Modupeola Adebayo said flogging leaves deep imprints on the developing brain.

“During childhood, the brain is like wet clay—it can be shaped, but also scarred forever.

Repeated trauma rewires the brain and can trigger mood disorders, learning difficulties, and violent behaviour later in life,” she explained.

Adebayo noted that myths about children being possessed or bewitched often drive parents to seek harsh spiritual treatments instead of medical care. “They are not cursed; they are struggling children who need help, not harm,” she stressed.

Both experts called for strict enforcement of the Child Rights Act, community education, and stronger collaboration between government, faith leaders, and schools to protect children.

They recommended trauma-focused therapy and counselling as safe, evidence-based alternatives.

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“Children can be guided without being bruised. They can be disciplined without being destroyed. And they can be corrected without being crushed,” Adebayo concluded.