OGUN GOVERNMENT TAKES MISTURA ADEBAYO INTO PROTECTIVE CUSTODY, BEGINS MEDICAL ASSESSMENT

The Ogun State Government has taken Mistura Adebayo into protective custody and begun medical assessments to determine her health condition and the support she may need.

The Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development said the intervention followed reports that the young girl had been found wandering on two separate occasions. Social workers were first dispatched to respond to concerns about her welfare, but when they arrived, Mistura had already been released to her grandmother.

The Ministry said authorities received another report the following day that Mistura had again been seen wandering. Following this report, officials intervened and took her into government custody to ensure her immediate safety and assess her circumstances.

Medical investigations are now underway to establish Mistura’s overall condition and identify any underlying health or welfare concerns that may require attention. The findings will help officials determine the appropriate next steps and the support best suited to her needs.

The Ministry said the government would take all necessary measures to safeguard the girl’s wellbeing and ensure she receives appropriate care. It added that officials are working towards a sustainable care arrangement guided by Mistura’s best interests.

The case highlights the importance of prompt intervention when a child may be at risk. The Ministry encouraged members of the public to report concerns involving children and other vulnerable people so that relevant authorities can respond in a timely manner.

Residents were urged to report suspected child abuse, neglect or exploitation, as well as gender-based violence and other welfare concerns. The Ministry stressed that early reporting can help protect vulnerable women and children and connect them with the assistance they need.

The government’s response, it said, will focus on Mistura’s safety, health and longer-term welfare as assessments continue. Further decisions about her care will be informed by the outcome of the medical evaluation and other relevant inquiries.

The Ministry reiterated that reports from the public play an important role in identifying people who may need protection. It called on residents to share concerns with the appropriate authorities rather than leave vulnerable individuals without support.

Officials said the priority is to ensure Mistura is safe and that any care arrangement made for her is appropriate, sustainable and centred on her welfare.