The abduction and brutal murder of four-year-old Ayman Abubakar in Sokoto State, Nigeria, has sparked outrage and grief, prompting a coalition of civil society organizations to demand justice and enhanced child protection measures. The coalition, comprising the Network Against Child Trafficking, Abuse and Labour (NACTAL), the Child Protection Network (CPN), and the Sokoto Response Team on Sexual and Gender-Based Violence/Child Protection, condemned the heinous act as a grave violation of children’s rights and a stark reminder of the escalating dangers confronting Nigerian children. Their collective call for action underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive response to address child safety and security across the nation.
In a press conference held at the American Corner in Sokoto, representatives of the coalition expressed their profound condolences to Ayman’s family and articulated their demands for a swift and transparent investigation. NACTAL National President Abdulganiyu Abubakar, CPN State Coordinator Usman Ahmad Suka, and Chairman of the SGBV/CP Response Team Rabiu Bello Gandi emphasized the importance of bringing the perpetrators to justice and implementing measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future. Their demands include a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding Ayman’s disappearance and murder, the arrest and prosecution of those responsible, regular updates to the public on the progress of the investigation, and the strengthening of child protection systems across various sectors of society.
The coalition’s call for action extends beyond the immediate investigation, urging a broader societal response to child safety. They emphasized the need for reinforced security measures in schools, mosques, churches, and communities, highlighting the vulnerability of children in these spaces. Moreover, they called upon the Sokoto State Government, traditional rulers, security agencies, and other stakeholders to collaborate in ensuring that justice is not only served but is also seen to be served. This emphasis on transparency reflects the deep-seated concerns about accountability and the need to restore public trust in the ability of authorities to protect children.
The tragic loss of Ayman Abubakar has resonated deeply with the public, particularly parents who share the unimaginable grief of losing a child to violence. Ayman’s father, Dr. Abubakar, made a poignant appeal for public and media support in the pursuit of justice for his son. His words captured the profound sense of loss and the determination to hold those accountable for this heinous crime. Dr. Abubakar’s plea for amplified attention to the case underscores the crucial role of civil society and the media in advocating for justice and raising awareness about the urgent need for enhanced child protection.
The circumstances surrounding Ayman’s disappearance and subsequent discovery of his body paint a grim picture of the vulnerability of children. Ayman vanished on the eve of Sallah, a significant religious holiday, after attending prayers at a nearby mosque. He was last seen playing with a neighbor’s child, who later recounted witnessing Ayman being taken away in a car by unidentified men. This account, along with the identification of the alleged vehicle, forms a crucial part of the ongoing investigation. The seven-week period between Ayman’s disappearance and the discovery of his body highlights the agonizing uncertainty and anguish endured by his family.
The investigation into Ayman’s murder is currently underway, with multiple suspects reportedly in custody. An autopsy report is expected to be submitted to the police in the coming days, providing further crucial evidence in the case. The coalition of civil society organizations remains committed to monitoring the progress of the investigation and advocating for justice. Their unwavering dedication reflects the broader societal recognition of the urgent need to protect children and ensure that those who harm them are held accountable. The tragic case of Ayman Abubakar serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges in ensuring child safety and the imperative for collective action to create a safer environment for all children.
