LAGOS GOVT REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO COMBAT CHILD TRAFFICKING
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– As Five Trafficked Children Released to State Government by the Police
The Lagos State Government has once again emphasised its firm stance against any form of child trafficking and, in particular, the buying and selling of children within the State.
Honourable Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr. Mobolaji Abubakre Ogunlende, made this declaration at a press briefing aimed at sensitising the public on the prohibition of child trafficking. The event also saw the handover of several children, rescued by the Nigeria Police Force, to the Ministry. The briefing was held on Friday at the Zone II Police Command Headquarters in Onikan, Lagos.
Mr. Ogunlende praised the Police for rescuing five children – Marvelous Obi (M, One-Year-Old), Promise Ifekwuna (M, Three-Year-Old), Somtochukwu Onyemaechi (M, One-Year-Old), Chibuzornma Onyemaechi (F, Three-Year-Old), and Praise Chukwu Ibezim (M, Six-Year-Old) – from a notorious child trafficking syndicate led by Sunday Okputu.
He stated, “Today’s gathering is a celebration of the positive results of collaboration. There is power in working together. This event also sends a strong message to those involved in this despicable trade: the buying and selling of children in Lagos State is illegal. They must cease this activity immediately. It will not be tolerated under any circumstances. The government of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu is dedicated to safeguarding the rights of every child in Lagos. Children deserve to grow in a safe and nurturing environment”.
In his remarks, DCP Ajao S. Adewale acknowledged that the achievement was a result of the strong collaboration between the Police, local communities, and various agencies. He noted that the effort aligns with the community and intelligence policing mandate given to the Zone II Police Command by Assistant Inspector General of Police, Mr. Fayoade M. Adegoke.
DCP Adewale explained further that the rescue operation, led by CSP Ngozi Braide, was based on intelligence received by the Command on January 8, 2025.
“Intelligence revealed that this syndicate specialised in the buying and selling of newborn babies, toddlers, and children of various ages. The syndicate was led by Sunday Okputu, who supplied the children, while Ibezim Chioma (F) acted as a middle person and caregiver, and Chinasa Echelibe (F) was responsible for caring for the children before they were passed on to their prospective buyers”, he added.
Pharm (Mrs.) Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, highlighted the need for proper care for every child in the State. She emphasised that adoption and guardianship options are available to ensure the welfare of all children.
Mrs. Oke-Osanyintolu further stated that the rescued children would be taken into government-run homes after undergoing necessary medical evaluations to aid in their recovery and rehabilitation.
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