Mwalin Abdu, Vice Chairperson of the Nigerian Bar Association, Gombe Branch, has condemned the amputation of the arms 12-year-old Adamu in connection with an alleged phone theft in the state’s Akko Local Government Area.
Abdu, Chairperson of the Human Rights Committee NBA, issued a press statement titled ‘Protecting our future: Urgent action needed on child safety in Gombe State’ to commemorate 2024 Children’s Day, condemning the recent maltreatment.
According to her, authorities should execute the child protection law to combat abuse, emphasising the need for collaborative efforts in combating heinous offences 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, there was another devastating story of 12-year-old Adamu from Tumu District in Akko LG of the same Gombe State, who also lost his arms due to a similar incident with Zubair Abubakar over the alleged theft of his 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 the 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 condemning 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 urged stakeholders to rise to the occasion and put an end to the overwhelming number of incidents, many of which, Abdu said, go unreported.
She said, “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, specialised 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 congratulating millions of children in the state, she urged proper support to ensure their safety.
“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.