Crime

Abuja Pastor, Accomplices Arrested for Trafficking 12 Underage Children from Nasarawa to Ogun State: Rescue Operation Leads to Swift Police Action

Published

3 months ago

February 11, 2024

Stella Charles Akupue

Abuja Pastor, Accomplices Arrested for Trafficking 12 Underage Children from Nasarawa to Ogun State: Rescue Operation Leads to Swift Police Action

Violence against children is a phenomenon that should shame us all. This is because rather than ensuring extreme protection for children, adults have and continue to perpetuate violence against children. The prevalence of child labour, increased trafficking paedophilia and other forms of violence against children are undeniable, especially in Nigeria, which has damaged millions of children physically and psychologically.

The Federal Capital Territory Police (FCT) Command has made a significant breakthrough in combating child trafficking with the arrest of a pastor and two others. The suspects, identified as Simon Kado, his relative Jesse Simon-Kado, and their driver, Muhammad Isah, were apprehended while trafficking 12 underage children from Nasarawa State to Ogun State.

According to Police Public Relations Officer Josephine Adeh, the suspects were intercepted by operatives of the FCT Police Command attached to the Rapid Response Squad 74. The children, eight girls and four boys aged between five and 16 years were transported in a Toyota Hiace bus with registration number APP 489 XE.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the victims, hailing from Akwanga LGA, Nasarawa State, were destined for Ogun State under the supervision of Pastor Simon Kado and Jesse Simon-Kado. Both suspects are currently in police custody, pending further investigation.

As the authorities work towards reuniting the rescued children with their families, Commissioner of Police for FCT, Benneth Igweh, underscores the priority placed on ensuring the safety of residents.

Strategic Measures to Protect Nigerian Children: A Call for Integrated Efforts and Collaboration

In order to safeguard the welfare and rights of Nigerian children effectively, it is imperative for the government to adopt a comprehensive approach encompassing various strategies and collaborative efforts.

Child trafficking: Police arrest pastor, others, rescue 12 children in Abuja -Legal Attorney Blog.

Firstly, the government should prioritize media campaigns and advocacy initiatives to raise public awareness about victim identification indicators and reporting mechanisms. By engaging the media and disseminating information widely, communities can be empowered to identify and report cases of child abuse, trafficking, and exploitation.

Secondly, addressing the root causes of trafficking and improving the situation of children at risk is crucial. This involves implementing targeted interventions to alleviate poverty, improve access to education and healthcare, and strengthen social support systems for vulnerable families.

Thirdly, there is a pressing need to enhance training programmes for law enforcement officials and parents alike. By equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills, they can better identify and respond to cases of child abuse and exploitation.

Furthermore, the government should prioritize the investigation, prosecution, and conviction of individuals involved in crimes against children. This requires the implementation of robust legal frameworks and the allocation of resources to support law enforcement efforts.

Collaboration among stakeholders is also paramount in safeguarding children’s rights. This includes state legislatures, religious leaders, civil society groups, and relevant government ministries at all levels. By working together, stakeholders can develop and implement policies that promote the overall well-being of children and ensure their protection.

Finally, networking and adopting a strategic, integrated action plan centred on the “best interest of the child” principle is essential. This necessitates a strong political will from the government and stakeholders to prioritize children’s rights and enforce protective measures effectively.

By implementing these strategies and fostering stakeholder collaboration, the government can effectively protect Nigerian children and ensure their safety, well-being, and future prosperity.

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