The Lagos State Government has once again emphasised its firm stance against any form of child trafficking and, in particular, the buying and selling of children within the State.
Honourable Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr. Mobolaji Abubakre Ogunlende, made this declaration at a press briefing aimed at sensitising the public on the prohibition of child trafficking.
Mr. Ogunlende praised the Police for rescuing five children, 3 male and 2 females namely; 1 year old Marvelous Obi, 3 yeqrs old Promise Ifekwuna, 1 year old Somtochukwu Onyemaechi, 3 years old Chibuzornma Onyemaechi, and 6 years old Praise Chukwu Ibezim from a notorious child trafficking syndicate led by Sunday Okputu.
In his remarks, DCP Ajao S. Adewale acknowledged that the achievement was a result of the strong collaboration between the Police, local communities, and various agencies. He noted that the effort aligns with the community and intelligence policing mandate given to the Zone II Police Command by Assistant Inspector General of Police, Mr. Fayoade M. Adegoke.
DCP Adewale explained further that the rescue operation, led by CSP Ngozi Braide, was based on intelligence received by the Command on January 8, 2025.
“Intelligence revealed that this syndicate specialised in the buying and selling of newborn babies, toddlers, and children of various ages. 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”, he added.
Mrs. Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, highlighted the need for proper care for every child in the State. She emphasised that adoption and guardianship options are available to ensure the welfare of all children.
Mrs. Oke-Osanyintolu further stated that the rescued children would be taken into government-run homes after undergoing necessary medical evaluations to aid in their recovery and rehabilitation.
The event also saw the handover of several children, rescued by the Nigeria Police Force, to the Ministry. The briefing was held at the Zone II Police Command Headquarters in Onikan, Lagos.
