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 demanded tougher sanctions for perpetrators of child abuse and sexual molestation.
The protesters called for stronger collaboration among the legislature, executive and judiciary to ensure that offenders are made to face the full consequences of their actions.
They also advocated life imprisonment for serious cases of child abuse, describing tougher punishment as necessary to deter others.
Responding, the Chairman, 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 several cases 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, appealed to the protesters to follow the appropriate legislative procedures when seeking the attention of lawmakers.
Mr Ofodeme said the Assembly was already reviewing existing laws, including issues relating to penalties and enforcement, with a view to strengthening the protection of children in the state.
He assured the protesters that their concerns would receive appropriate legislative attention.
