THE Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, has expressed deep concern over the growing number of children and adolescents living on the streets of Delta State.
The worry by the union was contained in a press statement made available to newsmen.
The statement, which was e-signed by Chairman and Secretary of NUJ, Delta State Council, Churchill Oyowe and Victor Sorokwu, respectively, noted inter-alia: “The rising number of children and adolescents living on the streets is a growing concern. Many of these young individuals are turning to begging and performing menial tasks, such as cleaning car windshields, as a means of survival. They are beginning to view these activities as legitimate trades. “Investigations reveal that many of these children and adolescents are not originally from Delta State and lack stable homes.
“Areas such as Koka interchange, Interbau roundabout and Maryam Babangida Way junction in Asaba; the PTI Junction and Effurun drive-over, have become their makeshift residences.
“These children often lack education and proper parental guidance, leading them to become street children.
“This situation makes them more susceptible to violence and a lack of compassion, viewing society as a harsh environment where survival is paramount.
“We are reminded of the plight of the Almajiris in the northern part of Nigeria. The neglect of the Almajiris over the past few decades has contributed to the rise of violent groups such as Boko Haram, as well as kidnappers and other criminal elements in the region. The failure to address the needs of these children has had severe consequences.
“The Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Delta State Council, warns that Delta State may face a similar situation if the issue of these ‘street urchins’ are not addressed promptly.
