NGO Demands Justice, Protection for Abused Abia Child, Commends Police

By Ochiaka Ugwu

The Anti-Kidnapping, Human Trafficking, Child Abuse and Drug Abuse Initiative (AKH-TRACADA) has strongly condemned the alleged abuse of a 13-year-old child in Abia State and called for swift, transparent and thorough action to ensure that justice is served.

In a statement issued in Abuja on Friday and signed by its Founder and National Coordinator, Primate Belonwu Ezeanyaeche, AKH-TRACADA commended the Abia State Police Command for the prompt arrest of the suspected offender, noting that the action was an important step towards protecting the child and ensuring a proper investigation of the case.

The organisation urged the police and other relevant authorities to handle the case with the utmost professionalism and sensitivity, while respecting the rights and dignity of the child.

According to the statement, “We strongly condemn the alleged abuse of a 13-year-old child in Abia State and call for swift, transparent and thorough action to ensure that justice is served.

“We commend the Abia State Police Command for the prompt arrest of the suspected offender, who happens to be the child’s father. This action is an important step towards protecting the child and ensuring that the matter is properly investigated.

“We urge the police and other relevant authorities to handle the case with the utmost professionalism, sensitivity and respect for the rights and dignity of the child.

“The safety and well-being of the child must remain the highest priority. We, therefore, call on the appropriate authorities to ensure that the child receives immediate protection, medical attention where necessary, psychosocial support and any other assistance required for recovery and rehabilitation.

“We further demand that the investigation be conducted without interference or intimidation and that, where sufficient evidence is established, the suspected offender be prosecuted in accordance with the law. At the same time, all parties must be afforded due process, while the suspect must be presumed innocent until proven guilty by a competent court.

“AKH-TRACADA views child abuse with serious concern. It is a grave violation of a child’s fundamental rights and must never be tolerated or concealed.

“We call on parents, communities, civil society organisations, security agencies and government institutions to strengthen efforts to prevent abuse, protect vulnerable children and ensure that perpetrators are held accountable.

“We once again commend the Abia State Police Command for the arrest and urge the authorities to follow the matter through to its lawful conclusion. The public expects justice, accountability and, above all, lasting protection for the affected child.

“Make no mistake about it, AKH-TRACADA will always seek justice and protection for every child and accountability for abuse,” the statement concluded.