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Plateau returns 601 almajiris to their states, receives 119

Plateau State has so far returned a total of 601 Almajiris to their states of origin to be tested, reunited with their families and properly cared for, Governor Simon Bako Lalong has said.

The states include Kaduna (38), Bauchi (419), Kano (92), Jigawa (47), Gombe (5), Lalong, who is also the Chairman, Northern Governors Forum, said in an address on Sunday to give the update of total lockdown over COVID-19 pandemic.

“We have also received 119 Almajiris from other states. We received 108 from Nasarawa State and 11 from Gombe State, who have been profiled, and tested.

“Out of this number, only one tested positive for COVID-19 and is receiving treatment in one of the isolation facilities. The rest have been reunited with their families.

“Within the State, we have profiled 36 Almajiris who are indigenes of Plateau State and have been tested and returned them to their families. 25 are from Quan-Pan, while 11 are from Wase Local Government Areas,” he added.

He explained that the decision to profile and return of Almajiris children, which commenced on 26th April 2020, was a collective one taken by Governors of the 19 Northern States in order to guarantee their safety against many dangers, including COVID-19.

“It is disheartening that this noble and bold decision is being politicized by a few people who although claim to abhor the Almajiri system, choose for reasons best known to them to play to the gallery by pretending to be fighting for the human rights of these children.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the Northern Governors are collectively committed to ensuring that all the Almajiri children returned to their States are profiled and tested for COVID-19 and other illnesses.

“Those who are positive are treated before being reunited with their families. At the end of the day, all Almajiris will be integrated into the society seamlessly.

“Additionally, their education and well-being will be handled by their States, which will bring to an end to the infamous Almajiri system, which has become a social challenge.

“We again appeal for the understanding and support of all stakeholders. Happily, reports from all the States show that the children are excited to go back home to the warm embrace of their families.”

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