The Acting Chairperson of the Plateau State Gender and Equal Opportunities Commission, Olivia Dazyam, has called on parents and guardians to prioritize the proper upbringing and protection of children to build a safer and more responsible society.
Dazyam made the call during the flag-off of the Commission’s Metro Bus Sensitization Campaign aimed at raising awareness on Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), child trafficking, child abuse, and other forms of human rights violations across Plateau State.
The campaign commenced at the Metro Bus Stop, Zawan Roundabout, with two Metro buses deployed on the Zawan–Terminus and Zawan–Gada Biyu routes. Officials and staff of the Commission boarded the buses to engage passengers and educate them on the dangers of gender-based violence, child trafficking, and related human rights abuses.
Addressing passengers during the exercise, Dazyam expressed concern over the increasing cases of sexual abuse, child trafficking, child exploitation, and other violations affecting children and vulnerable persons in the state.
She emphasized the need for parents and guardians to be vigilant and avoid exposing children to situations that could endanger their safety and future.
According to her, the sensitization campaign is intended to inform residents that Plateau State has laws and mechanisms in place to protect children and vulnerable groups, warning that anyone found violating such laws would face appropriate sanctions.
Dazyam also cautioned against the abandonment of parental responsibilities, including sending children away as domestic helpers, exposing them to exploitative situations under the guise of education, early marriage, and other harmful practices.
She urged residents to break the culture of silence and report cases of abuse and exploitation to the relevant authorities.
As part of the awareness campaign, the Commission paid the transport fares of passengers who boarded the Metro buses during the sensitization exercise.
The campaign forms part of the Commission’s ongoing efforts to promote human rights, protect vulnerable groups, and strengthen public awareness on gender equality and child protection across Plateau State.
