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From Aloysius Attah, Onitsha
Wife of the Anambra State Governor, Dr. Nonye Soludo, has called for a full and transparent investigation into the alleged sexual abuse and exploitation of a minor in Onitsha, following the rescue of four children reportedly connected to the ongoing investigation.
Dr. Soludo described the reported incident as deeply disturbing, stressing that children must be protected, loved, and provided with a safe environment in which to grow.
“I am deeply shaken and profoundly disturbed by the report of the alleged sexual abuse and exploitation of a child by her supposed mother in Onitsha, and by the rescue of four children in connection with the ongoing investigation,” she said.
The Anambra First Lady condemned all forms of violence and exploitation against children, noting that no child should be subjected to abuse or trauma.
“There are some things that are simply beyond comprehension, and the alleged abuse of innocent children is one of them. Children are meant to be protected, loved, and given the safety to grow, not subjected to any form of sexual exploitation or abuse,” she stated.
Dr. Soludo commended the Anambra State Police Command and members of the public, whose information and intervention reportedly contributed to the rescue of the four children.
She urged the police to conduct a thorough, transparent, and professional investigation, stressing the need to establish the facts of the case, determine whether other individuals were involved, and ensure that anyone found culpable is prosecuted in accordance with the law.
“I urge the police to leave no stone unturned in establishing the full facts, identifying anyone else who may have been involved, and ensuring that, where wrongdoing is established, the law takes its full course,” she said.
Beyond the rescue operation, the First Lady emphasised the need for sustained protection and rehabilitation of the children, noting that their emotional and psychological wellbeing must receive as much attention as their physical safety.
“My heart is particularly with the four rescued children. Beyond the immediate rescue, we must be concerned about what happens to them afterwards. The physical safety of a child is only the beginning; we must also heal the emotional and psychological wounds that may have been inflicted,” she said.
Dr. Soludo said she would continue to follow the case closely and maintain contact with relevant authorities to ensure that the children remain protected and receive the support required for their recovery. She also said she would engage relevant government agencies on the provision of medical, psychological, social, and rehabilitation services for the children.
The First Lady further appealed to parents, guardians, neighbours, and other members of the community to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspected threat to the safety or dignity of a child.
“Silence can never be an option when the safety of a child is at stake,” she stressed.
Dr. Soludo reaffirmed the commitment of the Anambra State government, under the Solution Administration, to protecting women and children from violence, abuse, and exploitation.
“Anambra, under the Solution Administration, stands firmly against every form of violence, abuse, and exploitation of our women and children. We will protect them with everything we have,” she said.
