By Chinedum Treasure
Candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC) in the 2025 Anambra State governorship election, Chioma Ifemeludike, has called for tougher punishment for perpetrators of child abuse and trafficking in the state.
Ifemeludike made the demand while leading a peaceful protest to the Anambra State House of Assembly under the auspices of the Comrade Chioma Grace Ifemeludike Ministry (CGIM).
The protesters carried placards highlighting concerns over child abuse, sexual exploitation and other forms of violations against children, urging authorities to strengthen child protection mechanisms and enforcement of existing laws.
Ifemeludike described the protest as a peaceful advocacy for social justice and stronger accountability in the protection of children.
She urged relevant authorities to investigate reported cases of child abuse and prosecute alleged offenders in accordance with the law, while ensuring adequate protection for child victims and witnesses throughout legal proceedings.
She also called for stricter enforcement of child protection laws and effective implementation of existing child-rights provisions in Nigeria.
“We demand accountability for adults and institutions that conceal or ignore cases of child abuse instead of protecting victims.
“We demand the introduction of life imprisonment as punishment for serious cases of child abuse, to serve as a deterrent to others.
“We call for regular public awareness campaigns to educate communities on child rights and the need to report abuse,” she said.
The protesters appealed to the Chairman of the Anambra State House of Assembly Committee on Women Affairs, Hon. Mimi Ikpeazu, to sponsor legislation aimed at strengthening the enforcement of child protection laws.
They also referenced provisions of the Child Rights Act, 2003, which seek to protect children from economic exploitation and hazardous work, alongside relevant provisions of the Labour Act.
Responding, the Chairman of the House Committee on Women Affairs acknowledged the concerns raised by the protesters but said the major challenge was not necessarily the absence of laws.
She noted that existing provisions under the Child Rights Law and the Violence Against Persons (VAP) law address various forms of child abuse, while identifying implementation and enforcement as key areas requiring attention.
The Majority Leader of the State House of Assembly, Sir Ikenna Ofodeme, said the Assembly was already reviewing existing laws and considering issues relating to penalties and enforcement.
He, however, urged protesters and advocacy groups to follow legislative procedures when seeking the attention of lawmakers.
Tags: #ChildAbuse #ChildRights #Anambra
