The Speaker of the Bauchi House of Assembly, Abubakar Suleiman, joined millions of Nigerians in the celebration of Children’s Day, advocating stringent punishment for child abusers in the state and in Nigeria generally.
Suleiman further called on governments, civil society groups, and human rights advocates to ramp up efforts in the fight against child abuse and trafficking across the state.
Addressing the issue on Tuesday, the Bauchi lawmaker, who underscored the importance of collective responsibility in safeguarding children’s rights and well-being, stressed that the joint fight against the menace would ensure a society safe for children in the country.
He emphasized that the legal system must not spare those who exploit or harm children, saying, “As custodians of the law, we must ensure that traffickers, abusers, and offenders face the full wrath of the law. This will serve as a deterrent to others.”
Furthermore, Suleiman urged parents and guardians to prioritize the emotional and physical needs of their children.
“Children are gifts from Almighty God and should be treated with utmost love and concern,” he said. “Parents must ensure children’s basic needs are met and that they are not left to fend for themselves or sent far away without proper provisions.”
He also addressed the treatment of abuse survivors, cautioning against neglect or abandonment. “Victims of abuse or rape must not be deserted by their families. Community support is crucial in helping them heal and move forward,” he said.
Highlighting legislative efforts, the Speaker noted that the Assembly had enacted multiple child-focused laws, which Governor Bala Mohammed has signed into law.
“We remain committed to the welfare, protection, and support of children in Bauchi State. We will continue to collaborate and make laws that improve the living conditions of children in the state and across the country,” he affirmed.
