A civil society organization, Talakawa’s Parliament, Delta State Chapter, has accused the Delta State Government of failing to adequately protect and care for two minor girls, aged eight and ten, who were reportedly subjected to severe abuse by their stepmother.

In a press statement dated January 14, 2026, and signed by its Delta State Coordinator, Comrade Aghatise Raphael, the group expressed “deep concern and unequivocal disappointment” over how the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community and Social Development handled the children’s welfare after taking custody.

The girls first came to public attention on December 5, 2025, when disturbing images of their abuse circulated widely, sparking national outrage and mobilizing donations for medical care, feeding, education, and psychosocial support. Several individuals volunteered to fund the plastic surgery required by the younger child, identified as Uriel, while organizations and faith-based institutions pledged long-term support.

Government Custody, Restricted Access

Following public pressure, the Delta State Government assumed custody of the children, a move initially welcomed by concerned Nigerians. However, Talakawa’s Parliament claims the intervention lacked adequate planning, transparency, and a genuine commitment to the children’s best interests.

The organization alleged that the girls were moved from a hospital where they were receiving donations and daily support to a government facility in Asaba, after which access by donors and volunteers was restricted. The group claimed that shortly after relocation, the children reportedly ran out of food, as previous donations had been exhausted.

Allegations of Neglect

Talakawa’s Parliament stated that it formally wrote to the Commissioner for Women Affairs on December 17, 2025, warning that nearly two weeks after the government assumed custody, no funds had been provided for feeding or general welfare.

A meeting with the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary on December 18 reportedly confirmed that no clear welfare mechanism had been established for the children. With government support not forthcoming, the organization said it had to appeal to external bodies, including the Knights of St. John, Agbor Commandery, for continued financial assistance.

Unfulfilled Medical Promises

The group also raised concerns about the government failing to facilitate the promised plastic surgery for Uriel. On January 9, 2026, the children were reportedly discharged from the government hospital without the surgery and handed over to their maternal family, “without public explanation, documented safeguards, or a disclosed medical plan.”

Calls for Accountability

Citing constitutional and statutory obligations, Talakawa’s Parliament reminded the state government that child welfare is a legal and moral responsibility. They urged immediate public disclosure and accountability, an independent review of the case, and a clearly defined welfare and medical plan for the children.

The organization emphasized that “child protection is not a public relations exercise but a constitutional, statutory, and moral obligation,” warning that the handling of the case raised “serious concerns about accountability, transparency, and the sincerity of the state’s commitment to protecting the girl child.”