Anambra Government Condemns Alleged Abuse of 9-Year-Old Boy in Awkuzu

The Anambra State Government has condemned the alleged abuse of a nine-year-old boy in Awkuzu, Oyi Local Government Area, warning that anyone found responsible will face the consequences prescribed by law.

The Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, Mrs Chinyere Onyekesi, announced the government’s position in a statement issued on Wednesday in Awka by the ministry’s media officer, Dominic Michael.

According to Onyekesi, the boy was allegedly assaulted by a relative following the loss of some money. She identified the alleged perpetrator as Onyinye Nwobodo, who was accused of assaulting her nine-year-old nephew over the missing money.

The commissioner described the reported incident as unacceptable, stressing that no child should be subjected to violence, intimidation or degrading treatment because of a domestic disagreement. She said the loss of money could not justify harming a child under any circumstances.

Onyekesi reaffirmed the administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s commitment to protecting children and safeguarding their welfare. She said the circumstances surrounding the incident would be investigated and that appropriate action would be taken against anyone found culpable.

The commissioner also called on parents and guardians to avoid using violence as a form of discipline. Instead, she urged them to exercise patience and provide children with the care, guidance and protection they need.

She further emphasised that protecting children requires the cooperation of parents, guardians, community leaders and relevant authorities. Members of the public were encouraged to report suspected child abuse to the Ministry of Women and Social Welfare or the nearest security agency.

The state government reiterated that children have a right to grow up in a safe environment, adding that suspected cases of abuse should be investigated promptly and fairly. The allegations against Nwobodo remain subject to investigation.