A wave of concern has swept through Agbarho Kingdom in Delta State as reports of missing children continue to alarm families and residents. In response, the Executive Chairman of Ughelli North Local Government Area, Olorogun Jaro Egbo, has taken decisive action by placing an immediate ban on the activities of iron scavengers in the community. The chairman also announced the formation of a high-powered investigative committee to unravel the mystery behind the alleged abductions and to ensure justice for affected families.
The decision was made during a tense security meeting held at the council’s headquarters. The meeting brought together key stakeholders, including leaders of the Agbarho women’s group, community heads, representatives of the Agbarho Royal Palace, the Agbarho Descendants Union, and top security operatives from across the local government. Present at the emergency session were the Ughelli Police Area Commander, Divisional Police Officers from every division in the LGA, officers from the Nigerian Army, Department of State Services (DSS), Customs, Immigration, Civil Defence, and members of local vigilante groups.
Speaking to journalists after the closed-door session, Egbo stated that the purpose of the gathering was to hear firsthand accounts of the disturbing situation. He confirmed that while some media reports suggested as many as 26 children had vanished, only seven cases have been verified so far. He described the development as heartbreaking and pledged the full backing of the government to uncover the truth and bring the perpetrators to justice.
In a move to intensify the investigation, Egbo announced the appointment of ACP Adebayo, Area Commander of Ughelli, as the head of the special investigative team. He emphasized that the team has been mandated to work closely with families of the missing children and to explore all leads until the truth is uncovered. He added that photographs and names of the missing children, along with the identities of their parents, have been documented and handed over to security agencies for immediate action.
The local government has also extended humanitarian support to affected families. One of the mothers, who is still pursuing her education, will be assisted in returning to school. Additionally, two other mothers will receive startup palliatives to begin small businesses, empowering them to support themselves and their children while the search continues.
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Egbo condemned the role allegedly played by some scavengers in these cases, especially after reports emerged that a suspected scavenger was caught attempting to abduct a child in Agbarho. In light of this, he officially banned the operations of scavengers, commonly referred to as “Iron Condemned,” within the kingdom. He warned that any scavenger found operating in the area without proper identification and documentation would be arrested and prosecuted. According to him, a profiling process must be established before any such business can legally resume.
The chairman expressed frustration that the local government was only recently made aware of these cases, even though the first incident reportedly occurred in December 2024. He called for greater communication between the public and government authorities, noting that time lost in reporting such serious crimes could be detrimental to ongoing investigations.
He urged parents, guardians, and community members to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious movement or unknown individuals in their neighborhoods. He also issued a warning to young people to avoid being lured into criminal activities by the promise of quick wealth, which he said has fueled an increase in ritual killings, cyber fraud, kidnapping, and violent crimes across the country.
The chairman reiterated his administration’s commitment to peace, safety, and the protection of every citizen, especially children. He said the newly formed investigative committee would ensure accurate data is collected, and all reports of missing children will be treated with the urgency they deserve. The committee is also tasked with recommending policy measures that will help prevent future occurrences.
