Lagos State Government Commends Police for Rescuing Five Trafficked Children
The Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, has commended the Nigeria Police Force, Zone 2 Command, for their swift action in busting a child-trafficking syndicate and rescuing five children.
Speaking at a press briefing at the Command Headquarters, Onikan, Deputy Commissioner of Police, DCP Ajao Adewale, highlighted the operation, which dismantled a highly organized trafficking network and ensured the safe rescue of the children.
The rescued children, who have since been reunited with relevant authorities for proper care, include:
- Marvelous Obi (1 year old)
- Promise Ifekwuna (3 years old)
- Somtochukwu Onyemaechi (1 year old)
- Chibuzornma Onyemaechi (3 years old)
- Praise Chukwu Ibezim (6 years old)
Commissioner Ogunlende emphasized that Lagos has zero tolerance for child trafficking and illegal adoption practices. He reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding children’s rights, stressing that “the buying and selling of children in Lagos State is illegal and must be stopped immediately.”
He also praised law enforcement agencies, community leaders, and child protection organizations for their role in the operation, which aligns with the state’s mission to strengthen child welfare policies.
DCP Ajao credited the success of the rescue to effective intelligence gathering, community collaboration, and the proactive policing strategies implemented under the leadership of Assistant Inspector General of Police, Fayoade Adegoke.
The operation led to the arrest of key syndicate members, including:
- Sunday Okputu – the supplier of trafficked children
- Ibezim Chioma – the intermediary and caregiver
- Chinasa Echelibe – responsible for temporary care before children were sold
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youth and Social Development, Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu, emphasized the need for proper child welfare structures, noting that legal adoption and guardianship remain the best alternatives for those seeking to care for children.
With this successful operation, the Lagos State Government reaffirms its commitment to protecting children from exploitation and ensuring that perpetrators of child trafficking face the full weight of the law.
