A chilling case of betrayal and endangerment has surfaced online, as a domestic worker allegedly set fire to her employer’s home—leaving a one-year-old child trapped inside. The shocking act, caught in part on video, has triggered a wave of outrage across social media and raised urgent questions about child safety, vetting of domestic workers, and accountability.
The young house help, whose name is yet to be disclosed, was reportedly left alone in the house when she allegedly set it ablaze under mysterious circumstances. The viral video shows her weeping uncontrollably while being interrogated in Hausa, although she has not yet publicly explained her motive. Reports suggest the child was later rescued, but the condition of the infant and extent of the injuries remain unclear as of press time.
Social media reactions have been swift and furious. Instagram user @khadiijaas_ shared a disturbing firsthand account, claiming the same girl had previously worked for her and exhibited manipulative, dangerous behavior. “God saved me,” she wrote. “She used to steal and lie constantly. I had no idea I dodged a bullet.”
She further accused the girl’s mother of enabling her destructive actions. “Her mum supports all the nonsense she does,” she wrote, backing calls for the girl to face serious legal consequences. The post quickly gathered traction, with other users expressing fear, anger, and empathy for the affected family.
The incident has reignited debates around the lack of regulation in Nigeria’s domestic worker sector. Critics argue that many families hire house helps without adequate background checks, psychological evaluations, or legal documentation—leaving them and their children vulnerable to tragic outcomes.
While the fire has been extinguished, authorities have yet to confirm the condition of the home or officially charge the suspect. Advocacy groups are now urging law enforcement to thoroughly investigate and prosecute the case to the full extent of the law.
Parents and guardians are advised to implement stricter vetting procedures, install surveillance where possible, and consider professional agencies over informal referrals when employing domestic help—especially in households with children.
