Benue: 12 underage children rescued from under Makurdi Bridge

The Wurukum Team of the Alia Generation Youth has rescued twelve underage children during a midnight security operation beneath the New Bridge in Makurdi, the Benue State capital.

The operation, which took place around 12:00 a.m. on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, uncovered the minors living in unsafe conditions. Authorities said the children were highly vulnerable to exploitation by criminal gangs and at risk of eventual involvement in banditry and other social vices if not promptly removed.

Preliminary profiling revealed that the children hailed from several local government areas, including Vandeikya, Konshisha, Guma, Gboko, Agatu, and Makurdi.

Acting on the directive of the Governor’s Internal Security Adviser, Hon. James Malu, the State Leader of the Alia Generation Youth, Comr. Akende Aondona Edmond, handed the minors over to the Principal Special Assistant to the Governor on Human Trafficking, Hon. Emmanuel Anumbe. They were later transferred to the Ministry of Women Affairs for detailed profiling, rehabilitation, and welfare support.

Speaking at the scene, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Project Monitoring and Community Services, Hon. Sam Maga, praised the team for their vigilance. He pledged to engage higher authorities to ensure the Alia Generation Youth receive adequate support for their efforts in promoting security and child protection across the state.

The group reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with government agencies in safeguarding at-risk children, strengthening internal security, and supporting rehabilitation initiatives in Benue.

Benue: 12 underage children rescued from under Makurdi Bridge