GONET Condemns Rising Child Abduction Cases, Calls for Stronger Protection Measures

GONET Condemns Rising Child Abduction Cases, Calls for Stronger Protection Measures

By Auwal Ahmad Umar

The Gombe Network of Civil Society Organisations (GONET) has strongly condemned the growing wave of child abductions, kidnappings, and other forms of violence targeting children across the country, describing the trend as a serious threat to national security and human dignity.

In a press statement signed by its leadership, the network expressed deep concern over what it called the “disturbing increase” in cases of child abduction, stressing that such acts represent a gross violation of human rights and endanger the future of society.

GONET warned that children must be protected at all costs, insisting that they deserve to grow up in safe and secure environments free from fear, exploitation, and violence.

The group called on security agencies at all levels to intensify efforts in preventing such crimes, ensuring swift rescue operations for victims, and bringing perpetrators to justice without delay. It also urged stronger collaboration between communities and security operatives.

According to the statement, parents, guardians, school authorities, religious leaders, and community members must remain alert and report any suspicious movements or activities to relevant security agencies.

The organisation further appealed to government authorities to strengthen child protection systems, enhance community policing structures, and address the root causes of insecurity that continue to expose children to danger.

“As a civil society network committed to peace, human rights, and social justice, we stand in solidarity with affected families and reaffirm our commitment to advocating for the protection and welfare of every child,” the statement read.

GONET leadership, signed by Ambassador Ibrahim Yusuf, Chairman, and Dr Ben Maina, Secretary, reaffirmed that protecting children remains a collective responsibility, urging stakeholders to act decisively to safeguard the nation’s future.

The group concluded with a renewed call for unity in protecting children, describing them as “the most vulnerable and most valuable segment of society.”