The National Orientation Agency (NOA) in Kaduna has sounded an alarm, urging parents and guardians to heighten vigilance over their children’s safety following a disturbing alert from the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS).
The NIS flagged the emergence of a new sect, “ACHAD Life Mission International,” suspected to be linked to human trafficking and child separation. The group is reportedly headquartered in Kaduna State, with its leader, identified as Mr. Yokana, residing in Jos, Plateau State.
The alert, detailed in a circular dated January 14 and signed by the Principal Staff Officer to the Comptroller General of NIS, A.A. Aridegbe, has sparked widespread concern.
Speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), NOA’s State Director, Alhaji Hamisu Abubakar-Mayere, described the situation as worrisome. “Parents are advised to keep a close eye on their children’s activities and movements, and to report any suspicious behavior to the authorities immediately,” he said.
Abubakar-Mayere emphasized that the NOA is collaborating with relevant authorities to monitor and address the potential threat. The agency is also stepping up efforts to educate parents and children about the risks of human trafficking.
“The agency is working tirelessly to raise awareness about the dangers of human trafficking and child separation. Parents are encouraged to provide credible intelligence on any suspicious activities or individuals to the authorities immediately,” he added.
To ensure grassroots awareness, Abubakar-Mayere revealed that NOA plans to visit all 23 Local Government Areas in Kaduna to engage stakeholders and mobilize the public against the sect.
NAN reports that law enforcement agencies and child protection organizations have expressed concerns over ACHAD’s activities, warning they could pose a serious threat to children’s well-being.
Abubakar-Mayere reaffirmed NOA’s commitment to safeguarding children, stating, “Parents and guardians must be extra vigilant in protecting their children.”
The call for vigilance underscores the urgency of collective action to protect vulnerable children from exploitation and harm.
