By ENDURANCE IKANONE

Concerned residents of Sapele have called on the Sapele Local Government Council to investigate the alarming trend of underage children lodging in hotels within the local government area. The residents, who expressed their dismay over the development, urged the council to take immediate action to address the issue.

According to the residents, it has become a common sight to see underage children checking into hotels in Sapele, often without the accompaniment of adults. The residents claimed that the children, who are supposed to be in school or under the care of their parents, are instead being exposed to various forms of exploitation and abuse.

One of the residents, who spoke to our newsmen on the condition of anonymity, expressed concern over the implications of the trend on the well-being and safety of the children. ?It?s very disturbing to see underage children lodging in hotels without the accompaniment of adults. This trend, if not checked, can have serious consequences on the lives of these children,? the resident said.

Another resident, Deacon Felix Adu, said he had seen underage children checking into hotels in Sapele. ?I have seen children as young as 12 years old checking into hotels in Sapele. It?s very disheartening to see these children being exposed to exploitation and abuse, ?Deacon. Felix said.

The residents, who are worried over the trend, have called on the Sapele Local Government Council to do something urgent about it. (Delta State News Bulletin)