Bauchi Police Rescue Chained and Starved child, Highlighting Need for Child Protection Measures.
By Emmanuel Sixtus
In a reoccurring shocking event that has shocked the nation, the Bauchi Police Command recently rescued a five-year-old boy who had been chained and starved by his father for three days.
While this is not the first time such case has been reported across the country. This distressing case underscores the urgent need for stronger child protection measures and heightened public awareness to prevent such abuse in the future.
Children continue to face abuse in the hands of parents and wards, with little or nothing done so far to protect them.
The ordeal of the child came to an end after months of suspicions in the neighbourhood led to action.
The police were alerted to the situation by concerned neighbours who noticed the child’s absence and reported suspicious activities at the home.
An investigation was initiated after taking in the report from neighbours. Officers later found the boy in a dire condition, chained in a room and severely malnourished. Immediate action was taken to rescue the child and provide him with necessary medical care.
“Operatives of the Bauchi Police Command acted swiftly upon receiving the tip-off. The child was found in a heart-wrenching state, and our priority was to ensure his immediate safety and well-being,” Bauchi State police spokesperson said during press briefing to highlight the operation that saved the victim.
The father, who inflicted this inhumane treatment on his son, has been apprehended and is currently in police custody. He faces charges of child abuse and endangerment. The case has been transferred to the relevant authorities for further investigation and legal proceedings.
“The father has been arrested and will be charged accordingly. This act of cruelty is unacceptable, and we will ensure that justice is served to protect the rights and dignity of the child,” the police spokesperson added.
This incident has reignited discussions about child protection laws and the need for more robust enforcement mechanisms in Nigeria.
While the country has existing laws aimed at safeguarding children’s rights, incidents like these reveal gaps in implementation and public awareness.
Child Protection laws continue to lack enforcement in the country. Parents often take absolute control of their wards, claiming they have absolute right to what they want to do with their wards.
Human rights organizations and child advocacy groups have called for comprehensive reforms to ensure that children are protected from abuse and neglect.
They emphasize the importance of community vigilance and the role of social services in monitoring at-risk families and providing necessary interventions.
“Children are among the most vulnerable members of our society, and it is our collective responsibility to protect them. This case highlights the urgent need for stronger child protection frameworks and proactive measures to prevent such tragedies,” said a representative from a local child advocacy group.
In response to the incident, the Bauchi State Government has announced plans to review and strengthen child protection policies. This includes improving the capacity of social services, increasing public awareness campaigns, and establishing more rigorous monitoring systems.
“We are deeply saddened by this incident and are committed to taking immediate steps to prevent future occurrences. Our administration will work closely with law enforcement, NGOs, and community leaders to ensure the safety and well-being of our children,” said a state government official.
Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have also stepped up their efforts to provide support and rehabilitation for the rescued child. These organizations are offering psychological counselling, medical care, and educational support to help the child recover from the trauma and reintegrate into society.
The public is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspected cases of child abuse or neglect to the authorities. Community involvement is crucial in identifying and addressing such issues before they escalate to severe abuse.
“We encourage everyone to be proactive in safeguarding children in their communities. If you see something, say something. Your timely intervention could save a child’s life,” urged a spokesperson from the Bauchi Police Command.
Social welfare security could address most of the incidents across the country, but the government lacks the willingness to act.
The rescue of the five-year-old boy in Bauchi is a stark reminder of the critical need for comprehensive child protection measures in Nigeria. While the swift action of the police has saved one child, it highlights the ongoing challenge of protecting vulnerable children from abuse and neglect. Through concerted efforts by the government, NGOs, and the community, there is hope for a future where all children can grow up in a safe and nurturing environment.
There is no record of at-risk children in the country, while nongovernmental organisations that champion fight against abuse of children lack the funds needed to implement plans to ensure the safety of children in Nigeria.
“Effort must start from sufficient government funding and commitment towards protecting children,” a critic says.
