The Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, has lauded the Nigeria Police Force, Zone 2 Command, for busting a child-trafficking syndicate and rescuing five children in the process.
The Deputy Commissioner of Police, Zonal CID, Zone 2, Ajao Adewale, who briefed journalists at the Command Headquarters at Onikan on Friday, said the syndicate had a strong network and hardly missed its targets but luck ran out on them in their latest criminal operation.
The rescued children include one-year-old Marvelous Obi, three-years-old Promise Ifekwuna, Somtochukwu Onyemaechi (one year old), Chibuzornma Onyemaechi (three), and Praise Chukwu Ibezim (six).
The commissioner, who also spoke at the briefing, emphasised the government’s stance against any form of child trafficking or the buying and selling of children within the state.
The event also saw the handover of several children, rescued by the police, to the ministry.
He stated, “Today’s gathering is a celebration of the positive results of collaboration. There is power in working together. This event also sends a strong message to those involved in this despicable trade that the buying and selling of children in Lagos State is illegal. They must cease this activity immediately.”
In his remarks, DCP Ajao acknowledged that the achievement was a result of the strong collaboration between the police, local communities, and various agencies
He noted that the effort aligned with the community and intelligence policing mandate given to the Zone II Police Command by the Assistant Inspector General of Police, Fayoade Adegoke.
He said, “The syndicate was led by Sunday Okputu, who supplied the children, while Ibezim Chioma acted as a middle person and caregiver, and Chinasa Echelibe was responsible for caring for the children before they were passed on to their prospective buyers.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu, highlighted the need for proper care of every child in the state. She emphasised that adoption and guardianship options are available to ensure the welfare of all children.
