Anti-Kidnapping, Human Trafficking, Child Abuse and Drug Abuse Initiative (AKH-TRACADA) has in strong terms condemned the alleged abuse of a 13 year old child in Abia State and called for swift, transparent, and thorough action to ensure that justice is served.
In a statement released in Abuja Friday signed by AKH-TRACADA’s Founder/National Coordinator, Primate Belonwu Ezeanyaeche, it commended the Abia State Police Command for the prompt arrest of the suspected offender, noting that the action was an important step toward protecting the child and ensuring that the matter was properly investigated.
AKH-TRACADA urged the police and other relevant authorities to handle the case with the utmost professionalism, sensitivity, and respect for the rights and dignity of the child.
According to the statement, “We strongly condemn the alleged abuse of a 13 year old child in Abia State and call for swift, transparent, and thorough action to ensure that justice is served.
“We commend the Abia State Police Command for the prompt arrest of the suspected offender who happens to be the child’s father. This action is an important step toward protecting the child and ensuring that the matter is properly investigated. We urge the police and other relevant authorities to handle the case with the utmost professionalism, sensitivity, and respect for the rights and dignity of the child.
“The safety and wellbeing of the child must remain the highest priority. We therefore call on the appropriate authorities to ensure that the child receives immediate protection, medical attention where necessary, psychosocial support, and any other assistance required for recovery and rehabilitation.
“We further demand that the investigation be conducted without interference or intimidation and that, where sufficient evidence is established, the suspected offender be prosecuted in accordance with the law. At the same time, all parties must be afforded due process and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty by a competent court.
“AKH-TRACADA views with concern that Child abuse is a grave violation of a child’s fundamental rights and must never be tolerated or concealed. We call on parents, communities, civil society organizations, security agencies, and government institutions to strengthen efforts to prevent abuse, protect vulnerable children, and ensure that perpetrators are held accountable.
“We once again commend the Abia State Police Command for the arrest and urge the authorities to follow the matter through to its lawful conclusion. The public expects justice, accountability, and, above all, lasting protection for the affected child.
“Make no mistake about it, AKH-TRACADA will always seek Justice and protection for every child, accountability for abuse” the statement concluded.