Enugu First Lady, Mrs. Nkechinyere Mbah
The Custos Care Foundation (CCF), a pet project of the wife of Enugu State Governor, Mrs. Nkechinyere Mbah, on Sunday strongly condemned the recent allegation of sexual abuse of a minor in Onitsha, Anambra State, by the baby’s biological mother.
In a press release issued on Sunday, CCF said it “has received with deep concern and utter dismay the report of the alleged sexual abuse and exploitation of a minor by her biological mother in Onitsha, Anambra State.
“The reported conduct involving Mrs Anulika Onyeanusia, popularly known as Freaky Goddess, is deeply reprehensible, condemnable, and unacceptable”
“Any act of sexual exploitation or abuse against a child constitutes a grave violation of the child’s dignity, safety, rights, and fundamental well-being. Beyond the disturbing nature of the alleged incident, the case raises serious concerns about the safety and protection of children within homes and communities.”
The press release was signed by the CCF Managing Director, Mrs. Blessing Egodi Igwe. CCF further stated: “The reported circumstances, particularly the alleged exploitation of a child within a domestic environment, underscore the urgent need for stronger child-safeguarding mechanisms, greater parental responsibility, and increased vigilance within society.”
CCF, however, acknowledged reports that operatives of the Anambra State Police Command have apprehended the alleged perpetrator and her husband in connection with the incident. “We call on the relevant authorities to conduct a thorough, impartial, and transparent investigation, ensure due process is followed, and serve justice.
“Most importantly, the child’s best interests, privacy, dignity, and psychological well-being must remain paramount throughout the process. This incident should serve as a wake-up call to families, communities, institutions, and government agencies on the urgent need to strengthen accountability for child safeguarding and protection.
“There is an urgent need for concerted action to protect children from aggression, neglect, exploitation, sexual abuse, trafficking, and other forms of violence,” Egodi Igwe said in the press release.
CCF further stressed that, “Child protection cannot be left to government agencies alone. It is a collective responsibility.
“Governments, families, parents and caregivers, neighbours, traditional rulers, women leaders, schools, religious institutions, community leaders, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders must become more vigilant, accountable, and responsive in protecting vulnerable children.
“Everyone has a role to play in preventing and reporting child abuse. Where there are signs of abuse, exploitation, neglect, or violence, silence can place a child at greater risk.
“We therefore encourage members of the public to speak up and promptly report suspected or confirmed cases to the appropriate authorities, including the Police, relevant child-protection agencies, and trusted civil society organisations such as the Custos Care Foundation.
“If you see something, speak out! If you suspect abuse, report it! If a child is at risk, act now! Together, we can challenge the evils that threaten the safety and dignity of our children and build a society where every child can grow, learn, and live in safety. Call 07038044577 to speak to Custos. Custos, care that transforms lives!”
