This year’s international day of the girl child has come and gone leaving behind the girl child, particularly,in northern Nigeria,in agony, anguish and pains. Many countries especially, African countries, did not mark the day properly.The politicians and decision-makers have grown tired of making empty promises that they know they cannot not keep.
The challenges faces by the girl child in northern States of Nigeria are many,but top among them is sexual Gender Based Violence. The kidnap for rape by terrorists like Dogo gide,Turji,etc have become so common that they cease to generate any reactions. As I am writing this piece,many girls have been forcefully turned into kidnappers’ sex slaves. And,nobody cares. No more any “bringback our girls” campaign today. The victimised girls are currently serving as wives of degenerated criminals in Niger, Katsina, Kebbi,Zamfara,Kaduna, etc.
Another pressing issue affecting the girl child in Northern Nigeria is deprivation of educational opportunities. Many communities have been displaced by loose gangs, therefore lack home and schools.Some of the victims have become prostitutes, beggars or engage in menial works in towns and cities.
Today,it is common to see girls, begging in the streets.
On the other hand, politicians and civil servants are stealing billions of Naira in the name of girl child through schemes that failed integrity test.
So, this year’s international day of the girl child, like the previous years, did not call for any celebration.Instead ,we should call it a day of mourning.
Comrade Bishir Dauda Sabuwar Unguwa Katsina
National Secretary.
