Senator Ede Dafinone, representing Delta Central Senatorial District, has expressed deep concern over a disturbing rise in child abductions in Agbarho, Ughelli North Local Government Area.
According to reports, more than six children, mostly between the ages of three and ten, have gone missing in recent months. The situation, which worsened in June with four reported disappearances, has left families devastated and heightened tension across the community.
The crisis boiled over on September 16, when women staged protests over the abductions, and reached a tragic point on September 24, when a mob lynched a woman accused of attempted kidnapping.
In a statement issued on Thursday, September 25, Senator Dafinone condemned the act of jungle justice, warning that it “only deepens the crisis and risks innocent lives.”
“To the grieving families, I extend my heartfelt condolences and solidarity,” the senator said. “Your pain is our collective burden, and I pledge to continue pressing for answers and justice at the highest levels of government.”
Dafinone called on the Delta State Police Command, Ughelli Area Command, and relevant federal agencies to intensify investigations, strengthen patrols, and work with the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) to dismantle any networks behind the abductions.
He cited the recent rescue of eight trafficked children in Delta as proof that proactive measures can be effective. He further urged community leaders, under the guidance of the Ovie of Agbarho, to maintain vigilance through neighbourhood watches, parental awareness, and stronger partnerships with schools.
“Every missing child is a future we cannot afford to lose,” the senator emphasized. “Let us resist jungle justice and instead channel our anger into unity, vigilance, and cooperation with law enforcement.”
Dafinone reaffirmed his commitment to pursuing stronger security interventions and legislative safeguards for Delta Central, assuring residents that peace and safety would be restored to Agbarho, Ughelli North, and Delta State.
