Yobe to set up child protection commission

Yobe State Plans to Establish Child Protection Commission

Damaturu, Yobe State — The Yobe State Government has announced its intention to create a Child Protection Commission aimed at addressing child abuse and improving the welfare of children throughout the state.

Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice Barr. Abubakar Bukar Kagu made the announcement on Sunday, stating that the proposed commission would serve as a dedicated entity for addressing violations related to children and ensuring justice for affected individuals.

Kagu noted that the initiative arose from discussions with key stakeholders in the justice sector, including the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), the Law Officers Association, and various civil society organizations. These discussions highlighted significant gaps in the existing child protection mechanisms in the state.

“Years of insurgency have compounded these social challenges, particularly for children. It is time for a comprehensive and robust framework for their protection,” Kagu said.

The Attorney-General pointed out that the current child protection structure, which relies on a single desk officer and a few committees, is inadequate given the rising cases of child abuse and neglect exacerbated by years of conflict.

The Ministry of Justice has been tasked with drafting a proposal for the establishment of the commission, which will be submitted to Governor Mai Mala Buni for consideration. Kagu outlined that the new quasi-judicial body would have the authority to receive complaints, summon individuals, investigate reports, conduct inquiries, refer cases for prosecution, and issue recommendations to relevant bodies, including the State Assembly.

Additionally, the commission will have its own budget and personnel to ensure effective operation with a primary focus on child welfare issues. Kagu underscored the government’s commitment to ensuring that individuals who violate children’s rights are held accountable under the law.

He also recalled that Governor Buni previously signed the Yobe State Child Protection Law 2022 and the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Law 2022, which create a legal foundation for protecting children and other vulnerable populations. The proposed commission is expected to strengthen the institutional response to child protection challenges across Yobe State.

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