Anambra Police Condemn Domestic Servitude, Early Child Marriage
The Anambra State Police Command has strongly condemned the harmful practices of domestic servitude and early child marriage, describing them as grave violations of children’s rights and dignity.
The Command expressed its displeasure on Tuesday at the Pastoral Centre, Awka, while joining key stakeholders—including the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), the Anambra State Ministry of Women Affairs, civil society organizations, community leaders, and other concerned citizens—to advocate against the continued prevalence of these practices in society.
According to a statement released by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Ikenga Tochukwu, domestic servitude and early child marriage constitute serious offences punishable under Nigerian law. He noted that these practices violate provisions of the Child Rights Act, the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act, as well as other relevant laws applicable in Anambra State.
Ikenga noted that under the law, no child should be deprived of education, dignity, safety, or the opportunity to grow in a healthy, supportive, and nurturing environment.
The advocacy event, he disclosed, was organized by the Africa Faith and Justice Network (AFJN) in collaboration with the Dominicans for Justice and Peace.
He further explained that domestic servitude often exposes children to exploitation, abuse, neglect, and the denial of basic rights, while early child marriage subjects minors—particularly girls—to severe health risks, psychological trauma, and lifelong social and economic disadvantages.
“These acts are not cultural norms; they are crimes that must be confronted collectively,” Ikenga stated.
He reaffirmed the Anambra State Police Command’s unwavering commitment to the protection of children and other vulnerable persons, assuring the public that the Command will continue to investigate reported cases, rescue victims, and ensure that offenders are prosecuted in accordance with the law.
“The Command is also strengthening collaboration with the Ministry of Women Affairs, social welfare agencies, traditional institutions, schools, and non-governmental organizations to enhance prevention, protection, and rehabilitation efforts,” he added.
The Police spokesperson called on parents, guardians, employers, and community leaders to discharge their responsibilities conscientiously, stressing that children belong in schools—not in servitude or forced into marriage. He encouraged communities to speak out and promptly report any suspected cases of child abuse, exploitation, or forced marriage to the nearest police station or appropriate authorities, assuring that all reports would be treated with confidentiality and professionalism.
Ikenga concluded by noting that the fight against domestic servitude and early child marriage requires collective action.
“The Police cannot do it alone. Together, we can safeguard the future of our children and build a society founded on justice, respect, and human dignity. The Anambra State Police Command remains committed to this cause and urges all citizens to join hands in saying NO to domestic servitude and NO to early child marriage,” he said.
