Child Abuse Cases Rising in Imo, Group Launches Statewide Awareness Campaign

A human rights organisation, Stand For Humanity Foundation, has announced plans to hold a one-day public awareness campaign against child abuse in Imo State, citing a growing number of cases involving the abuse and exploitation of children.

Speaking during a press briefing in Owerri on Monday, the foundation's Founder and President, Chidiebube Okeoma, said the campaign became necessary following the disturbing number of child abuse cases the organisation has intervened in across the state.

According to Okeoma, incidents involving the alleged defilement, physical assault, molestation and other forms of abuse against children highlight the urgent need for stronger public awareness and community action to protect minors.

He referenced several cases handled by the foundation, including that of a 63-year-old man from Amatta community in Ikeduru Local Government Area, who is currently being held at the Owerri Correctional Centre over the alleged defilement of a 12-year-old girl.

Okeoma also cited the case of 38-year-old Juliet Igwe, who is facing legal proceedings over the alleged abuse of her five-year-old domestic worker in Ideato North Local Government Area.

Another case involved a stepmother, Blessing Emmanuel, who was previously remanded at the Owerri Correctional Centre over the alleged battering of her 12-year-old stepdaughter in Owerri.

He said these and other cases underscore the need for residents to become more proactive in identifying and reporting child abuse.

"The future of our children is at risk if society continues to ignore these abuses. We all have a responsibility to protect them," he said.

The foundation said the campaign, scheduled for Saturday, will begin with a health talk at Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri, before participants embark on a road walk through major streets of the state capital.

Okeoma said Dr Emeka Nwolisa, Chief Consultant Paediatrician at the Federal University of Technology Teaching Hospital, Owerri, will deliver a lecture on the dangers of child abuse and practical steps for prevention before the awareness walk begins.

The event will also feature Nollywood comic actor Osinachi Dike, popularly known as Apama, hip-hop artiste Acharaman, gospel singer Nich Oma, while fitness instructor Ogechi Duruji (MC Duke) will lead the health walk.

Okeoma urged residents not to remain silent whenever they witness abuse against children, stressing that reporting such incidents could save lives and prevent further harm.

"The message is simple: end all forms of child abuse in Imo State. If you witness any child being abused, report it. It is wrong to see a child suffering abuse and fail to take legal steps to protect that child," he said.

He described the campaign as the first large-scale public awareness walk of its kind on child protection in Imo State and expressed optimism that it would encourage greater public participation in safeguarding children's rights.

According to him, the foundation remains committed to its mission of defending vulnerable members of society and giving a voice to victims of abuse.

"Our vision has always been to give voice to the voiceless and strength to the weak. We are pleased to be leading this campaign for change and to encourage every resident to join the fight against child abuse," Okeoma added.