One of the parents, Mrs. Asabe Agidi, expressed her gratitude to the government and admitted she was deceived into believing her child was leaving for a better life.
The Plateau State government has rescued 16 children trafficked from Bassa Local Government Area to Anambra State and reunited them with their families in an emotional ceremony held at the J.D. Gomwalk Secretariat in Jos.
The children, aged between four and nine years, were brought back home after coordinated efforts by security agencies and the state Ministry of Women’s Affairs and Social Development. The suspect behind the trafficking has been arrested.
Speaking at the handover, the Commissioner for Women’s Affairs and Social Development, Caroline Dafur, described the rescue as a landmark in the state’s fight against child trafficking.
“This rescue represents triumph over trauma, resilience, and hope restored in a world where the innocence of childhood should be protected,” Dafur said.
She urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities:
“If you see something, say something. Together, we can put an end to child trafficking in Plateau State.”
Receiving the children on behalf of Bassa LGA, Miriam Riti, wife of the council chairman, assured that measures had been put in place for their rehabilitation. These include medical checks, school enrollment, and continuous monitoring through community leaders.
One of the parents, Mrs. Asabe Agidi, expressed her gratitude to the government and admitted she was deceived into believing her child was leaving for a better life.
“I am grateful to have my daughter back, and I will take care of her with the little I have,” she said tearfully.
The reunion was witnessed by families, community leaders, and government representatives, marking what officials described as a victory in safeguarding the rights of vulnerable children in Plateau State.
