The Lagos State Government has reiterated its zero-tolerance stance against child trafficking, particularly the illegal buying and selling of children, vowing to intensify efforts to protect the rights and welfare of every child in the state.
Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, made this declaration at a press briefing at the Zone II Police Command Headquarters in Onikan, Lagos.
The event also marked the handover of several rescued children from the Nigeria Police Force to the Ministry.
Commending the police for their efforts, Ogunlende revealed that five children—Marvelous Obi (M, 1 year old), Promise Ifekwuna (M, 3 years old), Somtochukwu Onyemaechi (M, 1 year old), Chibuzornma Onyemaechi (F, 3 years old), and Praise Chukwu Ibezim (M, 6 years old)—had been rescued from a notorious child trafficking syndicate led by Sunday Okputu.
“Today’s gathering is a celebration of the positive results of collaboration. There is power in working together.
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“This event also sends a strong message to those involved in this despicable trade: the buying and selling of children in Lagos State is illegal. They must cease this activity immediately. It will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
“The government of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu is dedicated to safeguarding the rights of every child in Lagos. Children deserve to grow in a safe and nurturing environment”, Ogunlende said.
Deputy Commissioner of Police, Ajao S. Adewale, attributed the successful operation to effective collaboration between the police, local communities, and various agencies.
He emphasised that the operation aligned with the community and intelligence policing strategy directed by Assistant Inspector General of Police, Fayoade Adegoke.
According to DCP Adewale, the rescue mission, led by CSP Ngozi Braide, was based on intelligence received on January 8, 2025.
“Intelligence revealed that this syndicate specialized 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 (F) acted as a middle person and caregiver, and Chinasa Echelibe (F) was responsible for caring for the children before they were passed on to their prospective buyers,” he explained.
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Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Pharm Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu, stressed the importance of proper child welfare, noting that legal adoption and guardianship options are available for those seeking to care for children.
She further assured that the rescued children would receive medical evaluations before being placed in government-run homes for rehabilitation and reintegration.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to working with law enforcement and relevant stakeholders to dismantle child trafficking networks and ensure that offenders face the full weight of the law.
