The Ogun State Coordinator of the African Women Lawyers Association (AWLA), Mrs. Ebere Obiora, on Friday, reiterated the need for public enlightenment on the importance of the Child Rights Act (CRA) to prevent abuse.
Obiora told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos that cases of abuse of children have persisted in society, due to poor orientation, or absence of education on the Child Rights Act.
According to her, if proper awareness, education and orientation on the Act and laws of various states are made available to the public, it will address cases of wanton abuse of children.
She noted that every child has a right to life, basic education, health care, and general well-being, adding that they (children) are often denied these basic rights.
She, consequently, urged child rights advocates like non governmental organisations, schools and religious bodies to collaborate in protecting children as most vulnerable members of society.
“There was recently a viral video of a school teacher hitting a child on the head for failing to write the correct thing; sadly, such assault took place in a learning environment.
“The big question is, are members of the public enlightened on the rights of a child; we must begin to create this awareness to curb abuse,” she said.
According to her, cases abound where young girls in their prime, are sent out for street hawking with shabby clothing, while their peers are in school.
She said that it is important for a child to be equipped with basic education, as a first step to achieving life’s goal, adding that “a denial is tantamount to abuse.”
“The public must be aware of the law that safeguards a child, so there is a dire need for sensitisation.
“We find cases of forced child marriages here and there with nobody to speak up or for the child.
“Some parents are even unaware that it is a crime to encourage, connive or assist in perpetuating child marriage hence the need for orientation,” she said.
Obiora, therefore, urged child rights stakeholders to get a copy of the Child Rights Act, and understand its provisions for a safer society for every child.
“Every parent must understand that there is a law that protects a child. So, they must take a look at the Child Rights Act, and understand what the law provides for them.
“All hands, must therefore, be on deck to protect child rights and the children must also learn about their rights so that they can be on guard,” she said. (NAN)
