FIDA Demands Arrest Over Alleged Child Exploitation on Kano’s Zoo Road

The Kano State branch of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria has condemned the alleged exploitation of children by a man identified as Mr. Nagwale, said to be operating around Zoo Road near Massallacin Murtala in Kano.

In a strongly worded petition, the organisation accused the suspect of using minors to hawk aphrodisiac products, exposing them to harmful and inappropriate environments. The complaint, signed by the branch Chairperson, Chief Magistrate (Rtd) Salma Ahmad Danbappa, described the act as a grave violation of child rights.

According to FIDA, video evidence has surfaced showing the children engaged in the activity, raising serious concerns about their safety, dignity, and wellbeing. The group noted that such actions not only exploit the children but also subject them to conditions that could have lasting psychological and social consequences.

The petition, which was copied to key authorities including the Kano State Commissioner for Women Affairs, the Commissioner of Police, the Director of Public Prosecutions, and the NAPTIP North-West Zonal Command, called for immediate intervention.

FIDA cited relevant provisions of the Child Protection Law allegedly breached by the suspect. These include Section 21, which prohibits child labour exploitation; Section 22, which outlaws child hawking; and Sections 23 and 24, which forbid sexual exploitation and exposing children to indecent environments.
Describing the alleged actions as unlawful and abusive, the organisation stressed that they pose a serious threat to the welfare and fundamental rights of the affected children.

FIDA is demanding the immediate investigation and arrest of the suspect, as well as swift prosecution if found culpable. It also urged the Kano State Police Command and the Ministry of Women Affairs, Children and Persons with Special Needs to act without delay.

The group emphasised that protecting children remains a core responsibility of the government and called on all relevant agencies to ensure that no child is subjected to exploitation or harmful labour under any circumstance.