Vice Chairperson, Nigerian Bar Association Gombe Branch, Mwalin Abdu, has decried the amputation of a 12-year-old Adamu following alleged phone theft in Akko Local Government Area.
Abdu, who doubles as Chairperson, Human Rights Committee NBA, condemned the spate of abuse in a press statement she titled ‘Protecting our future: Urgent action needed on child protection in Gombe State‘, while commemorating 2024 Children’s Day.
According to her, authorities should implement the child protection law, in order to tackle incidences of abuse, stressing the need for concerted efforts towards combating dastard acts against minors.
She said, “In 2018 we woke up to the story of young Zubair Abubakar (13 years old), whose arms were amputated because of the abuse by his teacher, just four days ago was another devastating story of a 12 years old Adamu from Tumu District in Akko LGA of same Gombe state who also lost his arms due to similar incident with Zubair Abubakar, over alleged theft of phone, even though the office of the Attorney General has taken over the prosecution of the cases, we believe that is not enough, because these two stories are just a tip of the iceberg of the numerous daily reported and unreported complaints or cases of child abuse in the state, ranging from sexual abuse, child labour, child molestation, child trafficking and so on.”
While lamenting the effects of abuses perpetrated in the state, Abdul added, “The heartbreaking tales of young victims like Zubair Abubakar and Adamu from Gombe State underscore a troubling reality: child abuse remains a pervasive issue in our communities, transcending mere headlines to expose the harsh realities faced by our most vulnerable members. While the ratification of the child protection law in 2022 was a pivotal step, the gap between legislation and its effective enforcement looms large, leaving children at risk and their futures uncertain.”
She called on stakeholders to rise to the occasion towards putting a stop to the overwhelming incidences many of which Abdu noted are unreported, “The time for passive observance has passed, the safeguarding of every child’s well-being demands immediate and resolute action. Gombe State must move swiftly to implement and enforce the child protection law, ensuring that those who exploit and harm our children face the full force of justice. Robust reporting mechanisms, specialized victim support services, and widespread awareness campaigns are imperative to redress the rampant abuse, exploitation, and trafficking that plague our dear state,” she added.
While hailing millions of children in the state she called for adequate support to ensure they are protected, “As we approach National Children’s Day on May 27, 2024, let us unite in our resolve to fortify the defences shielding our young ones. Legislation alone is insufficient; it is in the application and enforcement of these laws that our duty lies. By championing the implementation of the child protection law, we lay the groundwork for a secure and promising future for the next generation of leaders in Gombe State.
“On this National Children’s Day, let us recommit ourselves to the noble cause of defending our children’s rights in Gombe State. Their safety is non-negotiable, and our duty is unwavering – to shield them from harm and equip them with the resilience to surmount the challenges that lie ahead.
“Gombe State stands on the threshold of change; the time for action is now. Let us rise as one to protect our children, nurture their dreams, and embolden them to carve a future steeped in promise. The moment beckons, and our children look to us for a brighter tomorrow,” Abdu added.
