The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has rescued six children allegedly being trafficked from Taraba State to Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.
Taraba State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Child Development, Mrs. Mary Sinjen, disclosed this on Wednesday, while briefing journalists in Jalingo, the state capital.
According to Sinjen, the victims were intercepted at Owoniyi Motor Park, Jalingo, where a suspected trafficker, identified as 52-year-old Nelson Obadiah, a native of Adamawa State, was arrested.
The children rescued were identified as Abigail Yabo (20), Faith Amos (11), Paulina Ishaya (nine), Jinko Sunday (10), Rose Danjuma (10) and Maryam Istifanus (eight).
The commissioner said the rescue of the children underscores the state government’s commitment to protecting children and other vulnerable persons from trafficking, exploitation and abuse.
She stressed that children should not be treated as commodities to be transported from one location to another for possible exploitation, noting that they deserve protection, dignity, safety and opportunities to develop their full potential.
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Sinjen commended Governor Agbu Kefas for his continued support for efforts aimed at combating human trafficking and protecting vulnerable persons across the state.
She also acknowledged the contributions of the governor’s wife, Mrs. Agyin Kefas, particularly her advocacy and efforts toward improving the welfare and protection of children in Taraba.
The commissioner further commended NAPTIP, the police, security agencies and other child-protection stakeholders for their vigilance and cooperation, which she said contributed to the successful interception.
According to her, the fight against child trafficking requires sustained collaboration beyond arrests and interceptions, involving government institutions, security agencies, traditional and religious leaders, communities, civil society organisations and other stakeholders.
She assured that the ministry would continue to work with relevant agencies to identify trafficking networks, protect victims and ensure that suspects were prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Sinjen urged parents, guardians and members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements of children, recruitment, transportation and other activities that could indicate trafficking or exploitation.
Reiterating the government’s position, she said: “We will not look away. We will not remain silent. We will not allow our children to be trafficked.”
She called for collective action to strengthen the fight against trafficking and create a society where every child is protected, valued and given the opportunity to grow, learn and fulfil their potential.
The commissioner reaffirmed that the fight against child trafficking remained ongoing, assuring residents that the Taraba State government, in partnership with relevant stakeholders, would continue efforts to tackle the menace.
