Governor Atiku Bagudu of Kebbi has condemned the chaining of a 12-year old boy, Jibril Aliyu by father and three foster mothers, in animal stalk.
The governor has also promised to expedite action on the passage and assent of the proposed Child Rights Act, now before the House of Assembly.
The Governor, who expressed anger while speaking to BBC Hausa Correspondent on Thursday said, although investigation was ongoing, the act was condemnable.
“The Police are yet to submit their report on the father and foster mothers of the boy, but, the heinous act, just as it is regrettable and disheartening.
“The state government has taken all the required steps, with a view to treating and rehabilitating the boy,” the governor said.
The Kebbi governor appreciated the support and show of concern by spirited individuals and groups.
He lauded the National Human Rights Commission, NHRC, and his wife, Dr Zainab Bagudu, among many others, for taking swift actions, leading to the urgent hospitalization of the boy at Sir Yahaya Memorial Hospital, Birnin Kebbi.
“He is now receiving medical attention at the hospital and we will leave no stone unturned in this direction.
“What happened to this boy is shameful and very disturbing. We will never allow such an obnoxious incident to recur anywhere in the state.
“Everybody has the compulsory duty to be alive and be privy what happens in our houses, our neighbour’s residences and the entire communities.
“If there is any lapse in this direction, we should be held responsible and liable. We have collective responsibilities to all children, even if they are not our own biological sons and daughters,” Bagudu added.
Bagudu said that “when passed into law, the State Child Rights Act, now before state House of Assembly, I will assent to it, without any hesitation.
“The proposed law will expand our mandate and responsibilities towards protecting the rights of child and we will not waver in doing this,” Bagudu, pledged.
