FENRAD raises alarm over child sexual abuse case in Ohafia, seeks justice

Michael Olumide

Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy and Development (FENRAD) has expressed deep concern over the reported sexual abuse of a minor in Ebem Ohafia, Abia State, describing the allegation as a grave violation of human rights and a disturbing reminder of the urgent need to strengthen child protection mechanisms across Nigeria.

In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor, the civil society organisation and public accountability watchdog condemned all forms of sexual violence against children and stressed that the rights, dignity, safety and well-being of every child must be protected without exception.

According to the organisation, the alleged abuse goes beyond a criminal offence, constituting a serious human rights violation with potentially lifelong physical, psychological and social consequences for the survivor.

FENRAD called on the Nigeria Police Force and all relevant investigative agencies to ensure a thorough, transparent, impartial and speedy investigation into the allegations. The organisation further urged authorities to prosecute any suspect where sufficient evidence exists, emphasizing that justice must be pursued without fear, favour, intimidation or undue influence.

The group noted that acts of sexual abuse against children violate several domestic and international legal instruments designed to protect minors.

These include the Child Rights Act 2003, the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act 2015, relevant provisions of the Criminal Code and the Child Rights Law of Abia State.

It added that such actions also contravene Nigeria’s obligations under international conventions, including the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW).

According to FENRAD, these legal frameworks collectively affirm every child’s right to protection from abuse, exploitation, violence, neglect and degrading treatment, while placing responsibility on governments and institutions to prevent, investigate and punish violations affecting children.

The organisation noted that the girl child remains particularly vulnerable to sexual and gender-based violence, making it imperative for authorities and communities to remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding children’s welfare.

While acknowledging the public outrage and concerns generated by the allegations, FENRAD appealed to community members and stakeholders to remain peaceful and law-abiding, stressing that justice must be pursued through due process and respect for the rule of law.

The group warned against actions capable of compromising investigations or prejudicing possible judicial proceedings, urging residents to allow law enforcement agencies to carry out their duties professionally.

FENRAD also called on the Abia State Government, the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, security agencies, child protection institutions, traditional rulers, faith-based organisations and civil society groups to work together in ensuring comprehensive support for the victim.

Such support, it said, should include access to medical care, psychosocial services, legal assistance and protection against stigmatization, intimidation or reprisals.

Beyond the immediate case, the organisation emphasized the need for sustained public awareness campaigns, stronger community-based child protection systems, effective school safeguarding policies and stricter accountability measures to tackle the growing incidence of sexual and gender-based violence against children in Nigeria.

Reaffirming its commitment to child protection and human rights advocacy, FENRAD declared that no child should live in fear, no survivor should be denied justice, and no perpetrator should be allowed to evade accountability.

The organisation pledged continued solidarity with survivors of sexual violence and reiterated its determination to promote human rights, access to justice and the creation of safe communities where children can grow, learn and thrive free from abuse and exploitation.