By Umar Faruk Birnin
In a concerted effort to combat human trafficking and sexual abuse, the Zuru Local Government Council, in partnership with the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), organized a one-day public enlightenment and awareness creation campaign. The event, held at the Zuru Local Government Town Hall on Saturday, November 2, 2024, aimed to educate residents on the dangers of human trafficking, child labor, sexual abuse, and gender-based violence.
Local Government Chairman, Honorable Muhammad Bala Isah, announced measures to combat human trafficking and sexual abuse within the local government and its environs, declaring a zero-tolerance stance on these issues. He emphasized that human trafficking is a modern form of slavery, where humans are exploited for dangerous activities like prostitution and hazardous labour.
Chairman Isah praised the federal government for establishing NAPTIP in 2003 to fight human trafficking and commended Governor Nasir Idris for supporting the establishment of an operational base office in Kebbi State.
Chairman Isah warned human traffickers to cease their activities, stating that joint security operations would soon sweep Zuru clean of human abusers. The council chairman applauded Governor Nasir Idris and NAPTIP for rescuing 19 children trafficked to Calabar for exploitative purposes. The Emir of Zuru, Major General (Rtd) Muhammad Sani Sami, expressed gratitude to NAPTIP and pledged traditional leaders' support in promoting awareness.
Governor Nasir Idris, represented by Special Adviser on Security Colonel (Rtd) Danladi Hassan Riba, reiterated the state government's commitment to fighting human trafficking and related abuses. He assured that his administration would work tirelessly to bring perpetrators to justice and safeguard people's lives and properties.
The event was attended by stakeholders, including the Technical Working Group (TWG) on Gender-Based Violence, security agencies, NAPTIP officials, and religious leaders. The TWG emphasized the need for a multi-sectoral approach to combat human trafficking. Traditional leaders and stakeholders pledged support for awareness creation and anti-trafficking efforts.
Tags
Crime