Reporter : OBY ARINZE
The Anambra State House of Assembly has assured child-rights advocates of its commitment to strengthening measures against child abuse and ensuring effective enforcement of laws protecting children. The assurance followed a protest by child-rights activist, Chioma Ifemeludike, and her supporters at the Assembly complex in Awka, where they called for tougher sanctions against perpetrators of child abuse and sexual molestation. The protesters also demanded stronger collaboration among the legislature, executive and judiciary to ensure that offenders face the full consequences of their actions. They advocated life imprisonment for serious cases of child abuse, describing tougher punishment as necessary to deter potential offenders.
Responding, the Chairman of the House Committee on Women Affairs, Mrs Mimi Azikiwe, acknowledged the concerns raised by the protesters. She said the major challenge was not necessarily the absence of laws, noting that the Child Rights Law and the Violence Against Persons Law already provide legal provisions for addressing various forms of child abuse. Mrs Azikiwe, however, identified implementation and effective enforcement as major challenges in the fight against child abuse.
Also speaking, the Majority Leader of the House, Mr Ikenna Ofodeme, urged the protesters to follow appropriate legislative procedures when seeking the attention of lawmakers. Mr Ofodeme said the Assembly was already reviewing existing laws, including provisions relating to penalties and enforcement, with a view to strengthening child protection in the state. He assured the protesters that their concerns would receive appropriate legislative attention.