Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State has ordered a crackdown on child trafficking and sexual exploitation in the state. The directive comes amid reports of children being moved out of the state, particularly from Karim Lamido local government area, for sexual exploitation. Governor Kefas has expressed concern over the trend and vowed to track the movement of affected children and ensure their rescue and return to the state.
To combat the menace, Governor Kefas has directed security agencies to intensify 24-hour surveillance and checks on vehicles, particularly at night. He has also instructed security personnel to interrogate suspicious movements, regardless of the status or personality of those involved. The governor stressed that there would be no hiding place for criminals in the state, emphasizing the need for a thorough crackdown on the trend.
The governor linked the security concerns to poor access to some rural communities, particularly Karim Lamido, due to inadequate road infrastructure. He noted that the poor road conditions had made it difficult for government officials and security agencies to effectively monitor activities in some parts of the state. Governor Kefas disclosed that he had personally encountered difficulties accessing Karim Lamido, a situation that could provide opportunities for criminal activities to thrive in remote communities.
To address the issue, the governor's administration is implementing an agricultural and rural development programme aimed at opening up farming communities, improving road access, and creating economic opportunities that would discourage criminal activities. The programme involves the deployment of agricultural equipment worth N16 billion, which has already been delivered and tested. The equipment will be used to open rural roads, connect farms to markets, and support modern mechanized agriculture.
Governor Kefas said the government deliberately partnered with Origin Tech Limited beyond the procurement of the equipment to ensure effective deployment, maintenance, and measurable results. He warned against repeating the experience of equipment procured by previous administrations, which were abandoned due to poor maintenance and lack of proper utilization. The governor emphasized the importance of involving local government councils in the programme, as it is designed to reach communities directly.
The governor urged the council chairmen to work closely with communities and farmers, attract investors to their areas, and ensure that the programme generates sustainable economic activities and revenue for the state. He emphasized the need for the state to move from dependency to generating its revenue and using it appropriately. Earlier, the chairman of Origin Tech Limited, Prince Sam Joseph, said Taraba was considered one of the viable states for the company's accelerator programme.
Governor Kefas' directive and the implementation of the agricultural and rural development programme are expected to have a positive impact on the state's security and economy. The programme aims to create jobs, improve infrastructure, and increase economic opportunities, thereby reducing the vulnerability of children and communities to exploitation. Key initiatives under the programme include the deployment of agricultural equipment, road construction, and partnership with private sector companies like Origin Tech Limited.
Key points
- Governor Kefas orders security agencies to intensify surveillance to curb child trafficking and sexual exploitation in Taraba State.
- The state government is implementing an agricultural and rural development programme to address security concerns and create economic opportunities.
- The programme involves a partnership with Origin Tech Limited to ensure effective deployment and maintenance of agricultural equipment.
