Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State has disclosed that 48 children are missing in the state amid a rise in child-stealing activities. He made the revelation on Friday during the inauguration of the Ramadan palliatives distribution exercise in Gombe.
Yahaya did not specify the period during which the children were taken and expressed uncertainty about their safe return. He noted that security is a shared responsibility and called on residents to support the government in tackling acts that threaten peace and safety.
“From the available records, 48 missing children between the ages of two and five have been taken from Gombe State to other parts of the world. Their parents remain here in the state, but we cannot confirm if the children will be recovered,” the governor said.
Highlighting recent security challenges, Yahaya recounted the incident of a boy who was kidnapped at Orji Estate following the relaxation of the motorcycle ban, but was fortunately rescued. He emphasised the need for serious measures to address emerging threats and restore peace in the state.
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The governor also lamented vandalism of critical infrastructure, including rail tracks and the newly built N26 billion Muhammadu Buhari Industrial Park, noting that electrical installations intended to distribute power from Dadin Kowa Dam to the park were tampered with and some equipment stolen.
Regarding the Ramadan palliatives exercise, Yahaya said it targets 70,000 beneficiaries, focusing on the physically challenged, religious organisations, orphanages, party support groups, and other vulnerable members of the community. He urged the Palliative Distribution Committee to ensure transparency, accountability, and fairness in the exercise.
“The items, including rice, macaroni, spaghetti, oil, and sugar, must be distributed within the next three days,” he said, stressing the importance of providing aid while maintaining security across the state.
By revealing the plight of the 48 missing children, the governor underlined the urgency of collective action and vigilance to protect the vulnerable while promoting peace and stability in Gombe.