Dr. Nonye Soludo, the First Lady of Anambra, has denounced the alleged exploitation and s*xual abuse of a child in the state’s commercial city of Onitsha by her purported mother.
In relation to the ongoing investigation into the alleged s*xual abuse, Soludo also voiced concern about the rescue of four children.
Recall that Anulika Onyeanusia, 36, was taken into custody by the Anambra State Police Command on Thursday in relation to a suspected child abuse case in Onitsha.
After a disturbing video of a woman allegedly using s*x toys on a minor went viral, the suspect was taken into custody.
The statement read, “I am deeply shaken and profoundly disturbed by the disturbing report of the alleged s*xual abuse and exploitation of a child by her supposed mother in Onitsha, and the rescue of four children in connection with the ongoing investigation.
“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 s*xual exploitation or abuse.
“No child deserves to experience such trauma, and no society should ever become comfortable with the abuse of its most vulnerable.”
She commended the Anambra State Police Command and everyone whose information and intervention led to the rescue of the children.
“I urge the police to conduct a thorough, transparent and professional investigation into this matter, leaving 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.
“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.
“I will be following this case closely and will remain in touch with the relevant authorities to ensure that the children are properly protected and that full justice is served.
“I will also be engaging with the appropriate government agencies to see how we can provide the necessary medical, psychological, social and rehabilitation support to help these children begin the difficult journey towards healing and recovery,” she added.
She also appealed to everyone, especially parents, guardians, neighbours and members of the communities, to remain vigilant and speak up whenever they notice anything that threatens the safety or dignity of a child, saying silence could never be an option when the safety of a child was at stake.
“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,” the statement concluded.
Children deserve love, protection, and a safe environment to grow and thrive. It is imperative that mothers and all caregivers refrain from abusing children, as such actions cause lasting harm and trauma. Let us commit to creating a society where children are respected, valued, and protected from any form of abuse. Every child has the right to a childhood free from harm, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure their safety and well-being.
