By OBINNA UNAEZE

The Anambra Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, Mrs Chinyere Onyekesi, has condemned the alleged abuse of a nine -year-old boy in Awkuzu, Oyi Local Government Area (LGA) over missing money.

Onyekesi, who made the vow in a statement issued on Wednesday in Awka by the ministry’s media officer, Mr Dominic Michael, said the boy was allegedly abused by his relation.

She said that the state government was committed to protecting children and ensuring accountability for violations of their rights.

“The Anambra government strongly condemn the reported abuse of a nine-year-old boy in Awkuzu, Oyi LGA.

“The state government is committed to protecting children and ensuring accountability for violations of their rights.

“The disturbing incident involved Miss Onyinye Nwobodo who allegedly assaulted her nine-year-old nephew following the loss of a sum of money,” she said.

Onyekesi described the incident as ugly and unacceptable, stressing that no child deserved to be subjected to violence, intimidation or degrading treatment under any circumstance.

She reiterated that the state government, under the leadership of Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, maintained a firm commitment to the protection and welfare of children.

The commissioner emphasised that the circumstances surrounding the incident would be properly investigated, adding that anyone found culpable would be held accountable in accordance with the law.

She said that the protection of children remained a collective responsibility that required vigilance and cooperation of parents, guardians, community leaders and relevant authorities.

The commissioner warned parents and guardians against resorting to violence or abusive treatment when taking disciplinary action against children, saying that children deserved care, patience, protection and guidance.

She said that the loss of money or any other domestic disagreement could justify the abuse of a child.

Onyekesi, therefore, urged members of the public to promptly report suspected cases of child abuse to the ministry or the nearest security agency. (NAN)