The Ebonyi State Government announced it has rescued a 10-year-old child from abuse and maltreatment.
The Commissioner, Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, who saved the child yesterday, July 21, criticized the prevalent rate of human rights violations in the society.
Nwamkpuma informed Journalist in an interview that the level of child labour, dehumanization and denial of access to education, among other maltreatment in the state, was alarming.
The Commissioner said, the survivor, Miss Chinelo Eze from Nsokkara Community of Ezza-North Local Government Area of the state, was found roaming the streets of Abakiliki with bruises all over her body.
She reported that Eze was found by a good samaritan and brought to the ministry.
“Upon investigation, it was discovered that the child ran away from her caregiver due to the inhuman treatment meted out to her.
“We also observed that she was denied access to education, suffered child labour and chained like an animal, which caused bruises on her hands.
“We also learnt that her guardians, now at large, have four children who are older than the survivor,” Nwamkpuma disclosed.
Adding that anyone found culpable of such acts would be punished according to the law, to serve as a deterrent to others.
The Commissioner urged parents to avoid giving out their children as maids but endeavor to train them in school.
Also, Mr Godwin Igwe, Director, Child Development in the ministry, affirmed that it is now prohibited to give out a child below 12 years as house help.
