Gombe State Governor Inuwa Yahaya has raised serious concerns over the alleged disappearance of 48 young children from the state, describing the situation as disturbing and deeply troubling.
Gatekeepers News reports that the Governor spoke on Friday during the official launch of the Ramadan palliati ves distribution programme in Gombe, where he disclosed that records available to the state government show that dozens of children aged between two and five were taken out of the state to unknown destinations.
According to him, the affected families still reside in Gombe, but the whereabouts and safety of the missing children remain uncertain. He explained that some of the cases involved children being trafficked outside the country, adding that security agencies are currently investigating the matter.
The Governor also narrated a recent incident at Orji Estate where a young boy was reportedly abducted following the partial lifting of the motorcycle ban in the state. He said the child was later rescued, stressing the need for heightened vigilance across communities.
Yahaya urged residents to work closely with security agencies, stating that safeguarding lives and property requires collective responsibility. He called on parents, community leaders, and residents to remain alert and report suspicious movements to authorities.
He further explained that certain security policies, including restrictions on metal scrap trading and motorcycle movement, were introduced to curb rising criminal activities such as theft, vandalism, and violent attacks. According to him, while some individuals affected by the policies have complained, the measures are necessary to restore peace and stability.
The Governor also expressed concern over the vandalism of public infrastructure in the state, revealing that parts of the N26 billion Muhammadu Buhari Industrial Park, as well as electrical installations linked to the Dadin Kowa Dam, had been damaged or stolen.
Speaking on the Ramadan palliatives, Yahaya said the distribution exercise is expected to reach 70,000 beneficiaries, including persons with disabilities, religious groups, orphanages, party support groups, and other vulnerable residents.
He directed the distribution committee to ensure fairness, transparency, and speedy delivery of food items, including rice, spaghetti, macaroni, sugar, and cooking oil, within three days.
The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving security, protecting public assets, and supporting citizens during the Ramadan period.
