By Israel Adamu, Jos
The Child Protection Network (CPN) has partnered with the Plateau State Government to address the growing challenges of child trafficking, molestation, abuse, and other societal vices. This collaboration was highlighted during the commissioning of CPN’s new office in Jos on Monday.
Speaking at the event, the Plateau State Coordinator of CPN, Mrs. Sandra Chikan, emphasized the urgent need for collective action to protect children from harm.
“This is the time to tighten our belts. It is the time to collaborate, unite, and confront the pressing issues affecting our children,” she stated.
Mrs. Chikan decried the alarming rates of child trafficking and abuse in the state, noting that in some local government areas, children are falsely accused of witchcraft, subjected to inhumane treatment, and, in extreme cases, even killed.
“The sad reality before us is that countless children in Plateau State are being trafficked daily. 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,” she said.
She also warned perpetrators, including traffickers, abusers, and pedophiles, that they would face the full force of the law, vowing that CPN would remain steadfast in its mission to safeguard children’s rights.
“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,” she added.
The Plateau State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hon. Caroline Panglang Dafur, reaffirmed Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s commitment to protecting children’s welfare. She highlighted the government’s efforts in uncovering and addressing numerous cases of child trafficking, stressing that offenders would face strict legal consequences.
“We will prosecute anyone found to be involved in child trafficking across the state’s 17 local government areas,” she said.
Hon. Dafur expressed delight in the collaborative approach being taken, emphasizing that the government alone cannot tackle the issue.
“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,” she added.
She further revealed the administration’s achievements, including dismantling a major child trafficking cartel operating within the state. The cartel, she said, involved various individuals and institutions, including lawyers, food vendors, and religious leaders, such as three pastors.
“No one is above the law. Anyone found complicit in child trafficking will be held accountable, no matter their position or title,” she warned.
Hon. Dafur also cautioned the public to remain vigilant, noting that some people might unknowingly engage in child trafficking under the guise of helping children, only to face legal trouble later.
“This administration is taking the fight against child trafficking seriously. Anyone found guilty will face the full weight of the law. We have had to bring in experts from Lagos and Abuja to address cases of children being trafficked out of the state. This is not something we take lightly,” she added.
The Wife of the Secretary to the Government of Plateau State, Mrs. Ulan Jatau, also spoke at the event, urging parents to prioritize proper upbringing for their children as a means of combating societal ills.
“I call on parents to rededicate themselves to bringing up their children along God’s path as a way of curbing increasing societal malaise,” she said.
The Plateau State Government and CPN remain united in their mission to protect vulnerable children and ensure that justice prevails for those who exploit them.
