Inuwa Yahaya has raised alarm over the disappearance of 48 children in the state, saying there is uncertainty surrounding their whereabouts and whether they will be found.
The governor made this known on Friday during the launch of the Ramadan palliatives distribution in Gombe. He revealed that official records show 48 children between the ages of two and five were taken from the state and moved to unknown destinations outside the area. According to him, their parents are still in Gombe, but there is no clear information about the fate of the children.
He also referenced a recent incident in which a boy was abducted at Orji Estate after the relaxation of the motorcycle ban but was later rescued.
The governor stressed that ensuring security is a shared responsibility and called on residents to actively support government efforts aimed at tackling threats to peace and stability. He urged the public to reflect on the current security challenges and work together to restore order, even if the measures required may be difficult.
Speaking further, he explained that some individuals affected by the ban on metal scrap trading had appealed to religious leaders to oppose the decision, arguing that it was their source of income. However, he maintained that the restriction was introduced to strengthen security, reduce motorcycle theft, and safeguard public safety.
He also decried the ongoing vandalism of vital infrastructure in the state, noting that the newly established N26 billion Muhammadu Buhari industrial park has suffered damage, with electrical components linked to Dadin Kowa dam reportedly tampered with and some equipment stolen.
On the Ramadan palliative initiative, the governor stated that 70,000 beneficiaries would receive support, including persons with disabilities, religious bodies, orphanages, party support groups, and other vulnerable residents. He directed the distribution committee to ensure transparency and fairness, adding that items such as rice, macaroni, spaghetti, oil, and sugar must be shared within three days.
The situation has sparked concerns about child safety and accountability, raising questions about who bears primary responsibility for protecting children — the government, security agencies, or the wider community.
