Don’t introduce religious coloration into abduction, trafficking, rescue of children – Bauchi Governor 

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By Akanji Alowolodu, Bauchi

Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed has stressed that the recent rescue of seven abducted children in the state has no ethno-religious coloration and so, it must not be used as such. 

The Governor therefore appealed to residents of the state not to use the issue to create confusion that may lead to mistrust among Nigerians. 

The call was following the apprehension created by the arrest of suspected masterminds of abductions and trafficking of the Seven children who are all indigenes of the State.

Mohammed made the plea while formally receiving the abducted children from the state Police Command at Government House Bauchi on Wednesday after their repatriation from Kano State.

The Governor expressed concern over what he described as mischievous business by dubious and devilish persons who want to tarnish the good image of the state explaining that such act can be found in every tribe across the country.

He further expressed disappointment for the nonchalant attitude by some parents in monitoring the affairs of their children leading to the rampant cases of abduction. 

The Governor charged religious and traditional leaders to educate them on their parental obligations.

He also ordered the State Ministry of Women Affairs and Child Development to immediately enroll the children into school and announced the donation of one million naira to each of the seven victims.

The Governor praised the efforts of the Commissioner of Police and other security agencies, the Kano state Governor for their support.

He assured that his administration will provide the Police with all the necessary support and tools to enable them to perform their duties.

The Governor also said that his administration signed the right to the Child Act to further protect the child from all kinds of violations.

He called the actions insulting to the state and accused parents and Society of not ensuring the proper upbringing of their children.

The governor said that his administration will continue to support security agents in ensuring sustainable peace and stability in the state.

Earlier, the State Commissioner of Police Muhammad Auwal who facilitated the repatriation process from Kano State Police Command, informed the Governor that all the suspects have been arrested and investigations are ongoing.

He appreciated the support of Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf and the quick response of Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed regarding the case saying that the investigation has so far revealed those who are behind the treacherous acts.

The children have already reunited with their families while the Governor donated N7 million, N1m each for the maintenance and upkeep of the rescued children.