Group links spate in Rape cases to Parents' lousy attitude towards Child Upbringing

 

Kenechukwu Ofomah

Awka

 

A group, Save and Secure the Child Initiative, has lamented increasing cases of child abuse and molestation in various communities in Anambra state.

The group said the ugly trend was more worrisome following the carefree attitude of many parents to their responsibilities of child upbringing.

Addressing traders in Eke Amawbia during its outreach under Maternal and Child Health Project, State Principal of the group, Chief Kingsley Obi said child abuse would be drastically reduced if parents take their responsibilities seriously.

He said the group's interest has no political coloration but is purely humanitarian, urging the traders to trust in them to fight for their justice and that of their dependents.

 He cited the example of a rape case involving an influential man who was jailed following the group's intervention despite plea by a senior police officer to drop the case.

He said, "Our membership cut across various fields and professions, including lawyers and doctors.

"We started this group five years ago with an agreement not to collect money from any politicians in order to be free to fight for the common man.

"We want you to trust us because of the feats we've recorded. Several persons have been arrested through our intervention. Some spent years in prison.

"If you have any case, feel free to contact us. We generate funds internally. We're not law enforcement agencies nor have affiliations with government, but we handle child-related cases."

Also speaking, Dr Uju Agwuna described the protection of children from abuse as a collective responsibility.

 

She listed various forms of abuse to include sexual, emotional, physical and psychological.

 

"You don't protect only your biological children. You owe a duty to protect any children around you, as long as he/she is a child," she added.

 

Another member, Barr Edith Anyanor said monitoring and providing guardianship for children required wisdom, saying even church pastors have been accused of sexual abuse.

 

She said, "We are on a mission to protect, uplift, and empower the most vulnerable children and youth across the globe.

 

"We believe that every child deserves a safe home, quality education, nutritious meals, and the chance to grow in dignity and hope.

 

"Our work spans emergency relief, school feeding, shelter provision, and the rehabilitation of children affected by trafficking, exploitation, and poverty.

 

"We walk hand-in-hand with children who’ve been silenced by trauma—restoring their voices, their safety, and their futures.

 

On his part, Paul Anaezeofor said the group also empowers young women, widows, and underprivileged youth with skills training, microenterprise support, and leadership development.

 

"From farming to fishery, from classrooms to community halls—we nurture self-reliance, resilience, and lasting impact.

 

"Through local partnerships, awareness campaigns, and grassroots initiatives, we are building a future where no child is left behind, and every dream has a chance to shine," he said.

 

Responding, the Chairman, Eke Amawbia, Daniel Nwokoye appreciated the group for the visit, pledging support of his members to the project.

 

He said, "Some of you go for evangelism, but there's no evangelism or prayers greater than this. This is the true religion.

 

"You can assist them in spreading the news by collecting their fliers and taking them to your churches to share with members."