Delta: Rising Number Of Children, Adolescents Living On The Streets, A Growing Concern –NUJ

By Daniel Dafe

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council has said the rising number of children and adolescents living on the streets is a growing concern.

In a statement on Wednesday signed by Churchill Oyowe, Chairman and Victor Sorokwu, Secretary, the union added that “many of these young individuals are turning to begging and performing menial tasks, such as cleaning car windshields, as a means of survival,” while noting that “they are beginning to view these activities as legitimate trades.”

Delta NUJ continued: “Investigations reveal that many of these children and adolescents are not originally from Delta State and lack stable homes. Areas such as Koka interchange, Interbau roundabout and Maryam Babangida Way junction in Asaba; the PTI Junction and Effurun drive-over, have become their makeshift residences.”

According to the statement, “these children often lack education and proper parental guidance, leading them to become street children.”

“This situation makes them more susceptible to violence and a lack of compassion, viewing society as a harsh environment where survival is paramount,” Delta NUJ, said.

The union said further: “We are reminded of the plight of the Almajiris in the northern part of Nigeria. The neglect of the Almajiris over the past few decades has contributed to the rise of violent groups such as Boko Haram, as well as kidnappers and other criminal elements in the region. The failure to address the needs of these children has had severe consequences.

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“The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, warns that Delta State may face a similar situation if the issue of these ‘street urchins’ are not addressed promptly.

“The Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, and Social Development holds the responsibility for addressing this issue. We urge the ministry and other relevant state agencies to take immediate and effective action to curb the spread of street children.

“As the saying goes, “A stitch in time saves nine.” The NUJ calls for a timely and coordinated effort to address this issue, which will help prevent the development of future criminals and ensure a safer society for all.”