The Child Protection Network (CPN) Ekiti State Chapter has joined forces with various Civil Society Organisations in a peaceful gathering on Wednesday to oppose the escalating wave of child abductions, abuses, and related atrocities nationwide.
The procession, encompassing key government offices such as the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Ministry of Women Affairs & Social Development, and Ministry of Justice, echoed a clarion call to governmental Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), urging them to enact more decisive measures to curb the alarming incidences of child abduction, abuse, and molestation.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Child Protection Network Nigeria, is slated to unfold across all 36 states in Nigeria, including Abuja, underscoring the urgency to combat threats to child security.
Participants wielded placards adorned with poignant messages, reflecting their concerns and demands, as they traversed the designated route of the rally.
Expressing sentiments shared by many, Southwest Zonal Coordinator of CPN Nigeria, Pastor Peter Akosile, emphasized the imperative for robust legislative support and meticulous enforcement of laws safeguarding children’s rights.
Noteworthy voices resonated during the assembly, with General Secretary of the Coalition of Ekiti Civil Society Organization (COECSO), Timothy Olasunkanmi Idowu, stressing the pivotal role of education in fostering enlightenment.
Oluwatimelehin Adaeze, the Ekiti State CPN Coordinator, emphasized the profound impact of child abuse and abduction on families, advocating for relentless pursuit of justice.
In response to the impassioned plea, representatives from key institutions, including the Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly and the Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General, pledged unwavering commitment to address the grievances raised.
Additionally, stakeholders such as the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development reiterated the state government’s dedication to engaging stakeholders in devising lasting solutions to kidnapping, as echoed by the Alaye of Oke-Ayedun Ikole.
The event, graced by an array of stakeholders including Naptip, FIDA, Youth Association, NOA, NYSC, Police, Civil Defense, NGOs, CBOs, and numerous others, captured a unified stand against the scourge of child insecurity.
