A 13-year-old boy simply identified as Christian has been seen selling tickets to commercial tricycle operators at Jigbale market in Udu LGA of Delta State.
The development has raised concerns about child labour, with many questioning how a kid could be subjected to such exploitation.
According to eyewitnesses, Christian was seen standing by the roadside, selling tickets to tricycle operators, who ply their trade in the area.
When approached, the young boy revealed that he had been forced to take up the job to support his family.
This incident is a clear violation of the provisions of the Child Rights Act, which prohibits the exploitation of children in any form.
Section 28 of the Act states that “no child shall be subjected to any form of exploitation, including economic exploitation”.
A child rights expert, Comrade Ighorhiohwunu Aghogho condemned the development, stating that “it is unacceptable for a child to be subjected to such exploitation”.
“The government must take immediate action to protect the rights of children and ensure that they are not forced into labour,” he added.
The Delta State Government has been called upon to investigate the incident and take necessary steps to protect Christian and other children from similar exploitation.