Expose Child Sexual Abuse in Your Schools – Group Tells Students, Pupils in Anambra

By Praise Chinecherem

Child Protection Network, (CPN) has decried the increasing incidents of child sexual abuse in Anambra urging school children to speak up against any form of abuse irrespective of who perpetrates them.

Members of the coalition made the appeal during series of sensitization activities carried out in various schools across the three senatorial districts of the state as a response to the spike in cases of sexual abuse among children.

The campaign tagged “Awareness Creation on Sexual Abuse: Case Reporting and Handling” is powered by the Rule of Law and Anticorruption (RoLAC 2) programme implemented by International IDEA and funded by the European Union.

During the campaign at Community Secondary School Umuokpu-Awka, a member of CPN, Ugochi Freeman, noted that sex is an affair between married adult warning the students not to indulge in it. “Sex is meant for husband and wife to enjoy. Stop stealing what does not belong to you”.

Freeman charged the school children to know and maintain a distance especially in the face of dangerous advances. “You must know the red flag – these are things you see to suspect that something is wrong. I strongly advise you – do not cross your boundary.

“According to Child Rights Law and Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law Anyone having a sexual affair with a child less than 18 years is a criminal. It is called sexual abuse.

“Some children are being defiled by their parents, uncles, relations, neighbours or even fellow children. When you see some advances, you know that something is wrong.

“Nobody has the right to touch your sensitive parts. If you see a red flag – the person wants something that you cannot give him, you must be careful and cautious.

“If you are in school, report to your teacher or principal. If at home, your parents or any other trusted adult around. Bad things thrive in secrecy. You can also report to CPN and we shall respond promptly.

“Action will be taken for good and in your best interest. CPN will always ensure that such a person gets justice,” she assured.

Another member of CPN, Yohana Rachel, counselled the children to prioritize their education above every other thing including sexual illicit sexual relationship.

“Early sex will derail you from your goal. She told you about red flag. Do not joke with it.

“CPN is committed to ensuring that child sexual abusers rot in jail. But you must speak up and report so that necessary actions can be taken to get justice for you. We give victims immediate access to healthcare services, counseling, and justice.

“So, protect yourself and your neighbour. Do not keep silent. Call us and report. Don’t be afraid,” Yohana advised.

The school Principal, Gloria Aratoke, represented by the school Guardian and counsellor, Chidinma Onuorah, appreciated CPN for the eye-opening session.

“We can’t thank you enough for opening our eyes to all these issues. We assure you that we shall put these lessons into practice.

A JSS three student, Bright Onuorah also expressed gratitude to the visiting team. “We will abstain from sex as you counselled us. We will prioritize our education above all other things,” he assured.

The CPN team was led by its Coordinator, Eucharia Anekwe who pledge sustained efforts towards nipping the problem in the bud. “Child sexual abuse is a monster that can destroy the academic goals of our children, hence this campaign to educate children about it.

“CPN is resolute to spread the message because with adequate education and enlightenment come ability to prevent it”.