The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons has successfully rescued 19 underage children trafficked from Kebbi State to Calabar, Cross River State.
While receiving the rescued children from NAPTIP in his office on Monday, the state governor, Nasir Idris, expressed pride and gratitude for the rescue operation, crediting the success to the collaboration between NAPTIP, the Kebbi State government, and other partner agencies.
Idris reaffirmed the state’s commitment to protecting vulnerable children and ensuring a safe environment for their growth and development.
The governor noted that the children had been trafficked under the guise of receiving an education, emphasising Kebbi State’s determination to combat human trafficking and exploitation.
He commended the tireless efforts of all agencies involved in the operation and reiterated his administration’s support for initiatives that safeguard children’s rights and well-being.
Expressing deep sorrow and anger over the children’s ordeal, Governor Idris described the situation as “barbaric.”
Some of the rescued children revealed that they had been subjected to forced labour, physical and sexual exploitation, as well as psychological trauma.
In his address, the governor urged parents to closely monitor their children’s movements and reassured the public that the government would continue prioritising the protection of children’s rights in the state.
He also promised the rescued children that his administration would provide the necessary care and support to help them recover from their traumatic experiences.
Idris also issued a stern warning to child traffickers, stating that the state would not tolerate such evil.
He vowed to ensure that those who seek to exploit and harm children are brought to justice.
The state Commander of NAPTIP, Misbahu Kaura, shared the details of the rescue, explaining that traffickers had been transporting the children from Zamfara State to Calabar.
“A tip-off allowed NAPTIP to intercept the latest group of children, leading to their rescue,” he stated.
Kaura also revealed that some of the children had been sexually abused, and three suspects were arrested in connection with the case.
He assured the public that the suspects would face prosecution.
