Two men have been sentenced to a total of nine years in prison each for supplying rubber solution and other intoxicating substances to vulnerable children in Kano State. This ruling comes after an investigation conducted by the Kano State Multi-Agency Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
The convicts, identified as Kabiru Isa, also known as Mada, and Usman Hamisu, also known as Mani, received their sentences from Magistrate Muhammad Alhaji Sani of Magistrate Court Number 44 in Gwammaja, Kano. They were found guilty of multiple offenses, including criminal conspiracy and administering harmful substances, which are violations of the Penal Code.
Each convict is required to serve their nine-year sentence without the option of a fine, with the court stipulating that each year be accounted for as a full calendar year.
The Task Force’s investigation uncovered that 43 children, predominantly underage, were rescued from the Race Course area of Kano, where they had been exposed to substances instead of receiving adequate payment for scavenging work. This worrying situation highlighted their vulnerability and increased the risk of substance abuse.
The Chairman of the Task Force, Muhuyi Magaji, emphasized the agency’s commitment to combating the exploitation of children and the distribution of intoxicating substances. He indicated that enforcement would remain integral to their mission, urging collective efforts among families, community leaders, and local governments to safeguard children from drug abuse.
In addition to punitive measures, the Task Force is implementing a broader initiative aimed at assisting 10,000 vulnerable youths by providing necessary medical and psychosocial support and facilitating rehabilitation and reintegration into society. Magaji called upon the public to report any suspicious activities relating to child exploitation and drug distribution, stressing the importance of vigilance and community involvement in addressing these critical issues.
