Ondo State Raises Alarm Over Rising Child Abuse Cases Ahead of 2026 Children’s Day

(Ondo State Governor, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa. Photo Credit: Pumnch News)

The Ondo State Government has urged all relevant stakeholders to work more closely together to improve the protection of children in the state, as cases of child abuse, trafficking, bullying and other social vices continue to rise.

This appeal was made in Akure on Friday by the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr Seun Osamaye, at a stakeholders’ meeting held in preparation for the 2026 National Children’s Day celebration.

Dr Osamaye described the engagement as part of activities planned towards the May 27 Children’s Day event, noting that the occasion serves as an annual reminder of everyone’s shared responsibility to safeguard children’s welfare and future.

She raised alarm over ongoing issues such as child abuse, neglect, trafficking, child labour, abandonment and limited access to quality education, warning that these challenges pose a serious threat to children’s futures and demand urgent attention.

She noted that this year’s Children’s Day theme, which focuses on promoting inclusion for every Nigerian child, is a strong call to action for stakeholders to ensure no child is left behind, irrespective of gender, disability, socioeconomic status, religion or ethnicity.

She also praised Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, his wife, and other stakeholders for their continued support, adding that the current administration remains committed to policies that strengthen child protection, improve access to education and healthcare, and promote social inclusion.

The Commissioner for Education, Igbekele Ajibefun, also weighed in, describing the celebration’s theme as timely and calling for stronger policies around child healthcare, safety, quality education and skills development.

He equally stressed the importance of improved security in schools and greater collaboration among stakeholders to ensure children are protected and included in national development.