51062023

STORY:

Anthony Igbinogun, a 48-year-old man, and his girlfriend, Joy Umukoro, 28, have been apprehended by the Edo State Taskforce against Human Trafficking. They are accused of selling their one-month-old baby to support their drug addiction. The arrest also includes their accomplice, 26-year-old Precious James, who facilitated the illegal transaction by connecting them with a buyer in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. The investigation unit’s head, Abigail Ihonre, disclosed that the baby was sold for N1.7 million. Authorities are currently conducting an ongoing investigation to locate the buyers and the baby.

Source: franktalknow.com

SENSES (Child Safeguarding and Protection Principle):

It is crucial to emphasize that raising children is a significant responsibility. Individuals should refrain from having children until they are fully capable of caring for them. When a child is born, there is an undeniable duty of care that must be fulfilled. Developed nations have Child Protection Services in place to ensure that children can remain in their own homes when it is safe. However, when a child is at risk, these services quickly develop alternative plans in the best interest of the child. Unfortunately, in Nigeria, there is a lack of effective mechanisms and agencies dedicated to protecting children from abuse and neglect, even by their own parents.

STONES (Call to Action):

1. Family Strengthening is fueled by Social Protection, which is a direct outcome of Social Investment by the state, government, and, in some cases, support from philanthropic individuals and institutions. This is a critical area that requires our attention in Africa. By implementing effective family strengthening and social protection services, this particular family could have received the necessary support, potentially preventing the unfortunate incident that is now being reported. To further support this recommendation, we provide working definitions for Family Strengthening and Social Protection. According to the Annie E. Casey Foundation, Family Strengthening is purposeful process that provides parents with essential opportunities, relationships, networks, and support systems to successfully raise their children. It emphasizes involving parents as decision-makers in meeting the needs of their families and communities. Social protection, as defined by the United Nations Research Institute for Social Development, aims to prevent, manage, and overcome circumstances that negatively impact people’s well-being. It encompasses policies and programs designed to reduce poverty and vulnerability by promoting efficient labor markets, minimizing individuals’ exposure to risks, and enhancing their ability to manage economic and social challenges, such as unemployment, exclusion, sickness, disability, and old age.

2. We urge all relevant stakeholders and the media to thoroughly investigate this case and ensure the child’s safe recovery. The parents involved, as well as the buyer, must face appropriate legal consequences.
3. We call upon all Child Protection Agencies in Nigeria to fulfill their responsibilities and ensure the ongoing protection of our precious children.
4. Measures must be implemented to monitor the well-being of children within their homes, guaranteeing they are not subjected to any form of abuse. In cases where their safety is compromised, immediate removal from the home should occur, with the provision of a secure alternative environment.