Group condemns rising cases of child abduction, violence

The Gombe Network of Civil Society Organisations (GONET) has voiced strong condemnation over the escalating cases of child abduction, kidnapping, and violence targeting children across Nigeria. The group described the trend as a grave threat to the safety and future prospects of the nation's youth.

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GONET strongly condemns the increasing cases of child abduction, kidnapping, and other forms of violence against children occurring across the country.

In a joint statement, GONET Chairman Ambassador Ibrahim Yusuf and Secretary Dr. Ben Maina expressed deep concern about the pervasive insecurity affecting children nationwide. They emphasized that child abduction represents a severe violation of human rights, significantly hindering efforts to create a secure environment for young people. "Children deserve to grow in a secure environment free from fear, violence, and exploitation," the statement read.

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The abduction of innocent children is a grave violation of human rights and poses a serious threat to the safety, well-being, and future of our society. Children deserve to grow in a secure environment free from fear, violence, and exploitation.

The organization has called upon security agencies to enhance their preventative measures, rescue operations for victims, and ensure swift justice for those responsible for these crimes. GONET also urged parents, guardians, schools, community leaders, religious institutions, and the general public to maintain vigilance and report any suspicious activities promptly.

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We call on security agencies at all levels to intensify efforts toward preventing these crimes, rescuing victims, and ensuring that perpetrators are swiftly brought to justice.

Furthermore, GONET appealed to all levels of government to bolster child protection systems and address the underlying causes of insecurity. The network reaffirmed its solidarity with families and communities affected by these incidents, pledging continued advocacy for children's rights and a collective effort to safeguard the nation's future.

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Governments at all levels must strengthen child protection mechanisms, improve community policing, and invest in measures that address the root causes of insecurity.