President Bola Tinubu has restated his commitment to the protection of the rights of children, especially the Almajiri child in the country, from all forms of molestation and abuse.

Muhammed Idris, executive secretary of the National Commission for Almajiri and Out-of-School Children’s Education, delivered the president’s commitment when he visited a 13-year-old boy (name withheld) who was molested in Dala Hospital in Kano.

“These have been happening for many years. Some consider the almajiri children to be children of the masses. They think that these children are not protected.

“Henceforth, anybody who molests any Nigerian child, be it almajiri children or anyone else, will have to contend with the government.

“The long arm of the law will catch up with anyone caught in that respect,” he said.

The president said the commission has taken measures to revitalise education and ensure that each child lives a dignity-filled life.

“We will also embark on a serious advocacy visit to sensitive communities to let teachers and parents know how important these children are,” he said.

Mr Idris thanked security operatives for taking the bold step of justice by arresting the culprit and further assured the victim’s parents of proper and adequate care.

Speaking earlier, the mother of the molested boy, Yahanasu Auwal, pleaded with the government to get justice for her son and also ensure that the culprit faces the law to serve as a deterrent to others.

Ms Auwal said her son was working as an errand boy for the culprit’s wife when the incident occurred.

(NAN)