The Lagos State Government has reiterated its zero-tolerance policy on child trafficking, warning that the buying and selling of children will not be condoned under any circumstances.
In a post shared on the government Facebook page today, it acknowledged that at a press briefing on Friday, Honourable Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr. Mobolaji Abubakre Ogunlende, praised the Nigeria Police Force for successfully rescuing five children from a notorious trafficking syndicate.
The operation, led by CSP Ngozi Braide, was based on intelligence received on January 8, 2025.
The rescued children—Marvelous Obi aged 1, Promise Ifekwuna aged 3, Somtochukwu Onyemaechi aged 1, Chibuzornma Onyemaechi aged 3, and Praise Chukwu Ibezim aged 6—were handed over to the Ministry of Youth and Social Development for proper care and rehabilitation.
Ogunlende emphasized the importance of collaboration in combating child trafficking, stating that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration remains committed to protecting the rights and well-being of children in Lagos.
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DCP Ajao S. Adewale of Zone II Police Command commended the cooperation between law enforcement, local communities, and government agencies in tackling this crime.
Adewale revealed that the syndicate, led by Sunday Okputu, specialized in the illegal sale of newborns and young children, with accomplices responsible for facilitating transactions.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Pharm (Mrs.) Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu, reassured the public that the rescued children would receive medical care and be placed in government-run facilities for rehabilitation.
She also encouraged legal adoption as a means of providing vulnerable children with safe and nurturing homes.
