SIDEC Demands Justice, Protection for Anambra Children Amid Sexual Abuse Allegations

The Social and Integral Development Centre (SIDEC) has called for thorough investigations and justice for the victims of the alleged sexual abuse which took place recently in Onitsha, Anambra State.
In a statement in Awka, the organization also called for stronger measures to protect children from sexual exploitation.
SIDEC’s reaction followed the circulation of a disturbing video online and the subsequent arrest of a 36-year-old woman by the Anambra State Police Command in connection with the alleged abuse.
The Police Command also reported the rescue of four children, aged two, three, six and nine, and the recovery of items considered relevant to the ongoing investigation.
The suspect’s husband is also being questioned as authorities seek to determine whether other persons may have been involved.
In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Ugochi Ehiahuruike, SIDEC described the alleged abuse as deeply disturbing and stressed that every child has the right to safety, dignity, protection and care.
The organisation urged law-enforcement authorities to conduct a thorough, impartial and child-sensitive investigation and ensure that anyone found culpable is prosecuted in accordance with the law.
SIDEC also called for the rescued children to be provided with a safe and supportive environment, as well as appropriate medical, psychosocial and legal assistance to aid their recovery.
The organisation emphasised the need to protect the identities and privacy of the children throughout the investigation and any subsequent judicial proceedings.
It warned that the circulation, reposting or downloading of materials depicting or allegedly depicting child sexual abuse could further traumatise victims and compound the harm already suffered.
SIDEC therefore urged social media users not to share such materials, but instead to report them to relevant authorities and digital platforms for appropriate action.
The organisation further called for a coordinated response involving the police, child-protection authorities, social workers, health professionals and other relevant stakeholders to ensure that the best interests of the children remain central to the investigation and any legal proceedings.
Expressing concern over the increasing use of digital platforms to facilitate the exploitation of children, SIDEC said technology must not become a tool for the abuse, humiliation or retraumatisation of children.
It urged parents, guardians, community leaders, schools, religious institutions and civil society organisations to strengthen child-safeguarding mechanisms and create safe environments where children can report abuse and seek help without fear.
SIDEC commended the security personnel and members of the public whose intervention contributed to the rescue of the children, while urging all stakeholders handling the case to prioritise their safety and wellbeing.
The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening child-protection systems, promoting accountability for perpetrators and raising public awareness on the prevention of child abuse and sexual exploitation.