ANAMBRA COMMISSIONER CONDEMNS CHILD ABUSE IN ONITSHA, CALLS FOR GREATER PUBLIC VIGILANCE AND PROTECTION OF CHILDREN
The Anambra State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Chinyere Esther Onyekesi (Adaejiejemba), has strongly condemned a disturbing case of child abuse involving a young girl in Onitsha, describing the incident as cruel, inhumane, unacceptable, and a gross violation of the rights and dignity of a child. According to reports, the incident involved one Aniagu Precious, an indigene of Enugu State residing in Onitsha, who allegedly subjected a young girl under her care to severe physical abuse, neglect, and starvation. The victim reportedly lost a tooth as a result of the assault and later collapsed while in school due to injuries sustained from the abuse, compounded by prolonged deprivation of adequate food and care.
Reacting to the development, Mrs. Onyekesi expressed profound shock and concern over the incident, noting that such acts undermine the values of compassion, responsibility, and respect for human dignity that society must uphold. She emphasized that every child deserves to grow in a safe, loving, and supportive environment free from violence, intimidation, exploitation, and neglect. The Commissioner reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of the Anambra State Government to the protection, welfare, and holistic development of children, stressing that the state maintains a zero-tolerance policy against child abuse and all forms of violence directed at vulnerable persons. She noted that children are among the most vulnerable members of society and must be protected at all times, irrespective of their background, social status, or circumstances, adding that any individual who subjects a child to abuse, torture, neglect, or exploitation not only violates the law but also jeopardizes the future of the child and society at large.
Mrs. Onyekesi assured residents that the ministry, working in collaboration with relevant government agencies, child protection institutions, and law enforcement authorities, is closely monitoring the situation and will ensure that justice is served, stressing that anyone found culpable after investigations are concluded will face the full weight of the law. She further called on parents, guardians, caregivers, teachers, community leaders, traditional rulers, religious organisations, civil society groups, and members of the public to be vigilant and proactive in identifying and reporting cases of child abuse and neglect, urging citizens not to remain silent whenever they witness or suspect acts of violence against children. "Protecting our children is a collective responsibility. Every child deserves love, care, protection, and the opportunity to thrive. We must all work together to ensure that those who violate the rights of children are held accountable. The safety and well-being of our children must remain a priority for everyone," she stated.
The Commissioner reiterated that the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development will continue to champion policies, advocacy campaigns, and intervention programmes aimed at promoting children's rights, preventing abuse, and ensuring that every child in Anambra State has access to protection, education, healthcare, and opportunities for growth and development. She called on communities to foster a culture where children are valued, protected, and empowered, adding that safeguarding children is not only a legal obligation but also a moral responsibility that must be embraced by all. Investigations into the matter are currently ongoing, while relevant authorities continue to take the necessary steps to ensure justice for the victim and strengthen measures against child abuse across the state.
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