The Yobe State Government has announced plans to establish a Child Protection Commission to strengthen the fight against child abuse and improve the welfare of children across the state.
The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Barrister Abubakar Bukar Kagu, disclosed this on Sunday, explaining that the proposed commission would serve as a specialised institution for addressing violations of children’s rights and ensuring justice for victims.
Kagu said the initiative followed consultations with key stakeholders in the justice sector, including the International Federation of Women Lawyers, FIDA, the Law Officers Association and other civil society organisations, which highlighted gaps in the state’s existing child protection system.
He noted that years of insurgency had worsened social challenges, leaving many children exposed to abuse, neglect and other forms of vulnerability. He therefore stressed the need for a more comprehensive and effective framework to safeguard their rights.
The Attorney-General explained that the existing arrangement, which operates through a single desk officer and a few committees, was insufficient to address the increasing cases of child abuse and neglect. He added that the Ministry of Justice had been directed to prepare a proposal for the commission’s establishment for consideration by Governor Mai Mala Buni.
According to Kagu, the proposed body would have quasi-judicial powers to receive complaints, summon individuals, investigate reports, conduct inquiries, refer cases for prosecution and make recommendations to relevant institutions, including the State House of Assembly.
He further stated that the commission would have its own budget and personnel to ensure effective operations and dedicated attention to child welfare matters.
Kagu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring that individuals who violate children’s rights are brought to justice, noting that the proposed commission would strengthen the implementation of existing laws, including the Yobe State Child Protection Law 2022 and the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Law 2022, earlier assented to by Governor Buni.
