By Golok Nanmwa, Jos
Child Protection Network (CPN) on Monday partnered with the Plateau state Government to tackle cases of child trafficking , molestation,abuse and other vices in the system
Plateau State Coordinator for the Child Protection Network (CPN), Mrs. Sandra Chikan made this known while speaking at the commissioning of it’s office in Jos .
In her words ” This is the time to tighten our belts, It is the time to collaborate, unite, and confront the pressing issues affecting our children. “
“We can no longer afford to work in isolation Instead, we must operate as a united front, a consortium, a coalition of determined forces. ,she said
According to her ,” The sad reality before us is that countless children in Plateau State are being trafficked daily, In certain local government areas within the state, some children are falsely accused of witchcraft, subjected to inhumane treatment, and in extreme cases, even buried alive or killed, These acts are unacceptable, They are a grave call to action, We must reflect deeply on our collective responsibility and unite to put an end to these injustices. “
” Perpetrators of these heinous crimes such as child traffickers, abusers, and pedophiles will face the full force of the Child Protection Network (CPN), ‘
‘ Let us remain committed to this cause, Let us work hand in hand to restore the values that have been eroded and address the root causes of child abuse, including poverty, which often drives these crimes.”
Also Speaking at the event in the State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hon. Caroline Panglang Dafur, reaffirmed Governor Caleb Mutfwang ‘s commitment to protecting the Plateau Child and highlighted the numerous cases the government had discovered and intercepted and stressed that those arrested would face the full wrath of the law.
She said: “We would prosecute anyone who is discovered to be involved in child trafficking in any of the state’s 17 local government areas. “
She added that “I am truly delighted to be part of this significant moment. As we always say, government alone cannot handle the enormous task of protecting our children”.
This responsibility requires the collective effort of every stakeholder. “We must come together, join hands, and collaborate to achieve our shared goals. “The work is immense, but with your support and cooperation, we can succeed. “
The administration of Governor Caleb Mutfwang is deeply committed to safeguarding the rights and welfare of children, women, and vulnerable groups in our society.
“This commitment is reflected in the consistent financial support we receive to implement initiatives aimed at protecting these groups. “
She also added that ” There is a lot happening concerning the rights of our children, As I speak to you, we have over 12 individuals currentlly under arrest , “This issue involves not just individuals but also institutions like schools, hospitals, and, unfortunately, Some hospitals as well as influential persons have been found to be complicit in child trafficking, which is unacceptable. “
“This administration is taking the fight against child trafficking seriously, and anyone found guilty will face the full weight of the law. We have had to bring in people from Lagos and Abuja to address cases of children being trafficked out of the state. This is not something we take lightly. “
Our efforts are yielding results. We recently dismantled a major child trafficking cartel, which has been a tough battle. This cartel was well-organized, with lawyers, food vendors, and even religious leaders including three pastors involved in these illegal activities. This goes to show that no one is above the law. Anyone found complicit in child trafficking will be held accountable, no matter their position or title.
” I want to caution all of us here. Some people may unknowingly get involved in child trafficking, believing they are helping children. But before you know it, you may find yourself in legal trouble. We must all be vigilant and informed.
The government is determined to root out everyone involved in this criminal activity, no matter their role or status.
The Wife of the Secretary to the Government of Plateau state Mrs Ulan Jatau who spoke earlier called on parents to ensure proper upbringing of their children.
” I call on parents to rededicate themselves to bringing up their children along God’s paths as a way of curbing increasing societal malaise” she added .
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