By Akinsuroju Olubunmi
Sealing of Abuja Orphanage over alleged child trafficking.
Authorities in the Federal Capital Territory have taken decisive action against an orphanage in Karonmajigi, Abuja, amid troubling allegations of child trafficking. The Priesthood Orphanage has been shuttered by the Federal Capital Territory Administration following the rescue of 23 children, aged between 1 and 14 years, who were reportedly trafficked from Plateau state.
Speaking to the press on Monday, Mrs. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, the Mandate Secretary of the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat, revealed that the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, had authorized the Secretariat to conduct a thorough review of orphanages operating within the nation’s capital. This move comes in the wake of the disturbing discovery at the Priesthood Orphanage.
Benjamins-Laniyi emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “There is no question, yesterday, with immediate effect, that ‘home’ was sealed, shut down.” She also highlighted ongoing efforts by the Women’s Secretariat to coordinate with the Plateau State government in reuniting the rescued children with their families.
The Plateau State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Caroline Dafur, provided further insight into the dire conditions faced by the children at the orphanage. She recounted how the proprietors had abandoned the children, leaving them under the care of one Pastor Abraham in appalling conditions of hunger and neglect.
Mrs. Dafur expressed her dismay at the state of the orphanage, describing it as “unkempt” and wholly inadequate for housing vulnerable children. Despite the challenges, she commended the collaborative efforts between the Plateau State government and the FCT Women’s Secretariat in swiftly addressing the situation.
As investigations continue into this distressing case, the focus remains on ensuring the welfare and safety of the rescued children, as well as holding accountable those responsible for their exploitation.
Orphanage, Trafficking