Dickson meets Ese’s family behind closed- door

The Bayelsa State Governor, Mr. Seriake Dickson, on Thursday met with the family of Ese Oruru, behind closed doors at the Government House, Yenagoa.

The governor, who spoke after the meeting, said he had set up a medical team comprising psychologists to facilitate the girl’s recovery.

Dickson hailed the media and civil society groups for their efforts in securing the freedom of Ese, adding that his government would support the family at this critical time.

He said: “I told the family that it could have been worse because their daughter may have disappeared forever.

“This matter has to do with enforcement of the laws of the state. Everything has to be done to protect the girl child, like Ese’s case has shown.”

“This is not a religious matter, but the right of a young girl to grow up with her parents.

“I want to use the opportunity to assure all that the police and the directorate of public prosecution are working to ensure that this matter is pursued to its logical conclusions.

“There are questions begging for answers. How come adults who see a minor in far away Kano did not deem it right to return such minor to the lawful custody of her parents?

“We want to know who could have saved this situation but did not.

“We have set up a team that includes medical psychologists and others. We are ready to support and stand by Ese, not just now but in the days, months and years ahead.”