The recent surge in cases of parents attempting to sell their children in Nigeria is a stark indication of the severe economic challenges faced by families in the country.
These distressing incidents expose the extremes to which individuals are pushed in their desperate struggle for survival. The government must urgently address the root causes of economic hardship to prevent further escalation of such tragic occurrences.
In Abuja, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) uncovered a horrifying attempt by a 42-year-old father, Chinana Telpesa-Tali, to sell his eight-year-old son and a female child for N20 million and N15 million, respectively. This reprehensible act underscores the depth of economic hardship faced by some families, pushing them to unimaginable extremes.
Anambra State Government also apprehended a 38-year-old woman, Chinyere Chukwu, for attempting to sell her two sons for N1.8 million. During interrogation, she revealed that the proceeds from the sale were intended to support her daughter’s tertiary education.
Similar incidents were reported last year. A woman in Anambra allegedly sold her three-month-old grandson for N50,000 because of her inability to care for the baby. Another woman in Ogun State was reported to have sold her 18-month-old baby for N600,000 to settle a bank loan.
The Nigerian government must reassess and adjust economic policies to alleviate the suffering of the masses. Rising prices of essential commodities and basic needs, coupled with high unemployment rates, contribute significantly to the desperation faced by families.
Selling or attempting to sell one’s child or grandchild because times are hard is inexcusable. We support the apprehension and prosecution of those caught committing the heinous act because the victims could end up being abused, used for fetish rituals, or trafficked. Nothing justifies such a terrible crime.
However, urgent measures are needed to create an environment that fosters economic growth and job creation. Providing opportunities for gainful employment will empower families to meet their basic needs without resorting to extreme measures.
The government should implement social safety nets and support systems to protect vulnerable groups, especially children, from the devastating impact of economic hardship. Adequate measures should be in place to ensure the welfare and well-being of families. Comprehensive strategies are needed to safeguard lives and property in the face of economic difficulties.
The government must act promptly to address the root causes of economic hardship, reassess economic policies, create job opportunities, implement social safety nets, and prioritise the welfare of vulnerable groups. Failure to do so could lead to further tragic incidents and worsen the living conditions for the masses. The government must take decisive actions to prevent the escalation of this alarming trend.
