Chinedum Treasure
The Catch Them Young Community Initiative (CATYCOI) has condemned in strong terms, all forms of child abuse, exploitation, neglect and violence against children in the South-East.
Executive Director, Nonso Orakwe who stated this on Tuesday particularly referenced recent disturbing incident involving alleged sexual abuse of a five-year-old girl in Onitsha, Anambra State.
He said such acts are completely unacceptable and must never be tolerated, urging parents, guardians, caregivers, religious and community leaders to take child protection seriously and remain vigilant.
Describing children as vulnerable members of the society, Orakwe said they deserve to grow in environments where they are safe, loved, protected and treated with dignity.
He said, “CATYCOI is particularly concerned about the increasing reports of abuse involving children within homes and other environments where they are expected to be protected.
“We urge parents, guardians, caregivers, religious and community leaders to take child protection seriously and remain vigilant.
“We especially call on fathers to be more present and intentional in the lives of their children—both male and female.
“Fatherhood is not only about providing financially; it also involves building strong relationships, listening to children, understanding what they are experiencing and creating an atmosphere where they can confidently speak when something is wrong.
“Every child living in a household, including domestic workers and house helps, deserves protection, dignity, care and respect.
“CATYCOI calls on parents and members of the public to speak up and report suspected cases of child abuse immediately to the Police, relevant child-protection agencies, or credible organisations working to protect children.
“Do not ignore warning signs or keep silent when a child’s safety is at risk.
“We further urge law-enforcement and child-protection authorities to thoroughly investigate reported cases, protect victims and ensure that anyone found responsible is dealt with according to the law.
“Protecting children is everyone’s responsibility. Silence can put a child at greater risk. Let us speak up, report abuse and create safer homes and communities for every child in the Southeast.”
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