The Vice Chairperson of the Nigerian Bar Association, Gombe Branch, Mwalin Abdu, has decried the amputation of 12-year-old Adamu following an alleged phone theft in Akko Local Government Area of the state.
Abdu, who also serves as Chairperson of the Human Rights Committee NBA, condemned the abuse in a press statement titled “Protecting our future: Urgent action needed on child protection in Gombe State” while commemorating the 2024 Children’s Day.
She urged authorities to implement the child protection law to combat abuse and stressed the need for concerted efforts to prevent acts against minors. Abdu stated, “In 2018, we woke up to the story of young Zubair Abubakar (13 years old), whose arms were amputated due to abuse by his teacher. Just four days ago, another devastating story emerged of 12-year-old Adamu from Tumu District in Akko LG of the same Gombe State, who also lost his arms over an alleged phone theft.”
Abdu noted that while the office of the Attorney General has taken over the prosecution of these cases, it is not enough, as these incidents are just the tip of the iceberg of the numerous daily reported and unreported cases of child abuse in the state, including sexual abuse, child labor, molestation, and trafficking.
She lamented the effects of abuses in the state, stating, “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.”
Abdu called on stakeholders to take immediate action to address the overwhelming incidences of child abuse, many of which are unreported. She emphasized, “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 also called for adequate support to protect the millions of children in the state, stating, “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.”