The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare in Imo State, Lady Nkechinyere Ugwu, has sounded the alarm on the rising cases of child abuse, house-help victimization, and stepchildren brutality, urging Imolites to take a stand against these inhumane acts. Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, November 14, 2024, she condemned the persistent menace and called for the full implementation of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law in Imo State.
Ugwu highlighted the alarming rate of abuse cases reported to her ministry and expressed frustration over delayed prosecutions, often hampered by bottlenecks in the judicial process. She stressed the need for community vigilance and public involvement in reporting these crimes.
“Our ministry has been inundated with countless reports of child labour, abuse by stepparents, and the victimization of house helps. These heinous acts must stop, and we are calling on the public to report such cases directly to the ministry or the police for immediate action. Silence in the face of abuse makes one complicit,” she stated.
Call to Action for Imo Residents
The commissioner urged parents to resist giving their children out as house helps, emphasizing the long-term consequences of such decisions. “When a child becomes a house help, they often lose their right to education and a better future. Even in difficult circumstances, it is better to keep your children at home and provide for them as best you can,” she advised.
She also warned step-parents against mistreating children left in their care, vowing that her ministry would ensure offenders face the full wrath of the law. “You don’t normalize evil and expect it to stand. Every child deserves love, care, and protection, regardless of their circumstances,” she added.
Special Courts and Accelerated Justice
To expedite justice for abused children, Ugwu called for the establishment of special courts dedicated to handling child abuse cases. “The current system places a heavy burden on regular courts, causing delays in securing justice for victims. Special courts will ensure swift trials and deter potential offenders,” she explained.
She also decried the persistent problem of child hawking during school hours, labeling it as child labour and a crime against humanity. “Despite several interventions, this practice continues. We are taking steps to hold parents and guardians accountable,” she said.
Commendation for State Leadership
The commissioner praised Governor Hope Uzodimma and the First Lady, Barrister Mrs. Chioma Uzodimma, for their unwavering support for the ministry’s initiatives. She noted that their efforts, including infrastructural developments and backing for vulnerable groups, have been instrumental in addressing societal challenges.
“We are fortunate to have a governor and first lady who are deeply committed to protecting the most vulnerable in our society. Their leadership continues to inspire our work, and we remain dedicated to driving their policies and programs to every corner of Imo State,” Ugwu stated.
