The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, has expressed concern about the increasing number of children and adolescents living on the streets.
The Union, in a statement issued by its Chairman, Comrade Churchill Oyowe and Secretary, Comrade Victor Sorokwu, noted that many of these young individuals had resorted to begging and performing menial tasks, such as cleaning car windshields, as a means of survival and were beginning to view such activities as legitimate trades.
It stated that investigations revealed that many of the children and adolescents concerned were not Deltans and lacked stable homes, with places like Koka interchange, Interbau roundabout and Maryam Babangida Way junction in Asaba; the PTI Junction and Effurun drive-over, have become their makeshift residences.
Delta NUJ noted that these children often lacked education and proper parental guidance, leading them to become street children, pointing out that the situation had tended to make them more susceptible to violence and a lack of compassion, viewing society as a harsh environment where survival was paramount.
The Union reflected on the plight of the Almajiris in the northern part of Nigeria, whose neglect over the past few decades had contributed to the rise of violent groups such as Boko Haram, as well as kidnappers and other criminal elements in the region, with the attendant severe consequences.
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, warned that Delta State might face a similar situation if the issue of these ‘street urchins’ was not promptly addressed.
It urged the State Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, and Social Development and other relevant authirities charged with the responsibility of addressing the issue to take immediate and effective action to curb the spread of street children in the state, to avoid the breeding of future criminals and ensure a safer society for all.
Meanwhile, the Union has expressed heartfelt condolences to the Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command and the entire Command in the wake of the tragic loss of officers in the ambush by suspected kidnappers on Sunday, October 13, 2024.
It stated that Journalists in the state were deeply saddened by the loss of the newly deployed DPO to the Agbarho Division and other officers, as well as the injuries sustained by the DPO of Orerokpe, currently receiving medical attention.
The NUJ recalled that the unfortunate incident occurred while the police team was courageously on a rescue mission, highlighting the immense risks and sacrifices involved in their relentless efforts to rid the state of criminal elements and ensure the safety and security of residents
It commended the unwavering dedication to this thankless task and urged the Police Command not to be deterred by the tragic event.
“Our thoughts and prayers are also with the families of the fallen officers. We understand the profound loss they are experiencing, and we appeal for prompt support and succour to be provided to them during this difficult time.
“Please know that the NUJ stands in solidarity with the Delta State Police Command, and we remain committed to supporting your efforts to create a safer environment for all residents of Delta State”, the statement concluded
