CSOs Seek Justice for 4-Year-Old Boy Kidnapped and Killed in Sokoto — Because the Smallest Coffins Are the Heaviest to Carry
A coalition of civil society organisations (CSOs) has urgently called for justice following the abduction and tragic killing of a four-year-old boy, Ayman Abubakar, in Sokoto State, Nigeria. The incident, which has deeply shaken the community, is being described by activists and child protection advocates as a grim reminder of the increasing threats facing Nigerian children today.
On Saturday, May 24, 2025, at a press conference held at the American Corner in Sokoto, key representatives of the Network Against Child Trafficking, Abuse and Labour (NACTAL), the Child Protection Network (CPN), and the Sokoto Response Team on Sexual and Gender-Based Violence/Child Protection came together to voice their demands for urgent action and justice.
A Call for Justice and Accountability
The coalition issued a joint statement condemning the horrific crime, emphasizing the broader implications for child safety across Nigeria. The statement, signed by Abdulganiyu Abubakar, NACTAL’s National President, Usman Ahmad Suka, CPN State Coordinator, and Rabiu Bello Gandi, Chairman of the SGBV/CP Response Team, highlighted the need for immediate government intervention.
“This is a horrific violation of a child’s rights and a tragic reminder of the growing dangers facing Nigerian children,” the statement said.
The coalition expressed solidarity with Ayman’s family and with every Nigerian parent grieving the loss of a child to violence, stressing:
“We stand in solidarity with the family and with every Nigerian parent grieving a child lost to violence. No parent should ever have to endure such a brutal loss.”
The groups commended the Sokoto State Police Command for reopening the investigation but warned that more urgency and transparency were required to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Demands from the Coalition
The coalition outlined specific demands that must be met to bring justice for Ayman and to improve child protection across Nigeria:
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A thorough and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding Ayman’s disappearance and murder.
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The arrest and prosecution of all those responsible for this heinous crime.
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Regular public updates on the progress of the investigation to ensure accountability.
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The strengthening of child protection systems in schools, places of worship, and within communities to enhance safety measures for children.
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A national commitment to prioritize child safety, ensuring that institutions and security agencies work hand in hand with community leaders.
According to the coalition, protecting Nigerian children is not just a community or family issue—it must be a national priority. They called on government bodies, security agencies, and local leaders to unite in the fight to safeguard children and demonstrate justice visibly.
“Justice for Ayman represents justice for all,” the coalition pledged, vowing to closely monitor the investigation until justice is served.
The Heartbreaking Story of Ayman Abubakar
At the press conference, Ayman’s father, Dr. Abubakar Hamzat, spoke movingly about the devastating loss of his young son. While acknowledging that nothing can reverse the tragedy, he stressed the importance of ensuring those responsible are held accountable.
Dr. Hamzat made a heartfelt appeal to civil society organisations and the media to amplify their call for justice and ensure that Ayman’s story receives the national attention it deserves.
He shared the details of the day Ayman disappeared:
“My son vanished on March 29, the day before Sallah. He had just returned from prayers at the local mosque when he was last seen playing outside.”
According to the testimony of a neighbour’s child, Ayman was abducted by some men who took him away in a car.
Despite intense community efforts to find him, Ayman’s fate remained unknown for over seven weeks. Tragically, on May 15, his lifeless body was discovered, confirming the worst fears of his family and the community.
The same child who witnessed Ayman’s abduction was reportedly able to identify the vehicle used in the crime, providing crucial information for the ongoing police investigation.
Ongoing Investigation and Police Actions
Authorities in Sokoto State have confirmed that the investigation into Ayman’s disappearance and murder is still active. Several suspects are reportedly in custody as the police continue to gather evidence.
An autopsy report is expected to be submitted to the police soon, which will provide further insights into the cause of death and potentially strengthen the case against the suspects.
The Sokoto State Police Command’s renewed commitment to the case has been welcomed by the civil society coalition, but the pressure remains on security agencies to deliver justice swiftly and transparently.
The Larger Context: Child Safety in Nigeria
The tragic killing of Ayman Abubakar highlights a broader and deeply concerning issue: the vulnerability of children in Nigeria to abduction, abuse, and violence.
Despite existing laws and child protection frameworks, gaps remain in enforcement and community awareness, often leaving children at risk in both urban and rural settings.
Civil society organisations have repeatedly called for stronger child protection policies, more effective community policing, and increased public education on safeguarding children.
With rising cases of child trafficking, forced labour, and gender-based violence across the country, the coalition's demand for a national prioritization of child safety could not be more urgent.
What Needs to Be Done: A Call to Action
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Government Accountability: Authorities must prioritize child protection and enforce strict penalties against perpetrators of violence against children.
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Community Engagement: Religious institutions, schools, and neighbourhood groups need to collaborate to establish safer environments for children.
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Public Awareness Campaigns: Widespread education on child rights, safety measures, and the importance of reporting suspicious activities can empower communities to act promptly.
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Strengthening Law Enforcement: Police forces must be adequately trained and resourced to investigate child abuse and trafficking cases efficiently and compassionately.
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Support for Families: Victims’ families require counseling, legal support, and protection from intimidation during investigations and trials.
Conclusion
The loss of four-year-old Ayman Abubakar is a heart-wrenching tragedy that underscores the urgent need for robust child protection mechanisms in Nigeria. The coalition of civil society organisations, alongside grieving families and communities, demands swift justice and lasting reforms to prevent future atrocities.
As the Sokoto State Police continue their investigation, the eyes of the nation remain fixed on ensuring that those responsible for Ayman’s death are held accountable. This case should serve as a rallying point for Nigerian society to prioritize the safety and well-being of every child—because justice for Ayman is justice for all Nigerian children.
