Abia First Lady, Mrs. Priscilla Chidinma Otti, has reiterated the importance of protecting children from all forms of abuse, emphasizing the need to respect their personal boundaries.
Speaking at a Christmas party organized for Abia children on Thursday, at her office complex in Umuahia, Mrs. Otti highlighted the urgent need for societal awareness and action to safeguard children’s rights and well-being.
During her speech, she passionately urged parents, caregivers, and the public to avoid inappropriate physical contact with children, particularly in sensitive situations such as bathing, dressing, or toileting.
“We should learn to establish clear boundaries—do not hug or touch children inappropriately. Respect their space and privacy,” she stated, emphasizing that adults should ensure their interactions with children remain respectful and protective.
Mrs. Otti also decried the prevalence of child molestation and abuse, calling on individuals and communities to work together to create safe environments for children. She encouraged parents to develop trust-based relationships with their children, ensuring they feel confident reporting any suspicious behavior or abuse.
“Let your children see you as their number one defender,” she advised, noting that such trust can empower children to stand against or report abuse.
The First Lady also expressed concern over the maltreatment of young house helps, describing the emotional and physical abuse many face as unacceptable.
She called for greater societal vigilance in identifying and reporting such abuses to the authorities, emphasizing that all children, regardless of their circumstances, deserve respect and dignity.
The event, which was a joyous celebration of the Christmas season, also served as a platform for championing the rights and safety of children across the state, ensuring they thrive in a nurturing and inclusive environment.
Mrs. Otti further reaffirmed her commitment to building a safer Abia for children through continuous advocacy, awareness campaigns, and collaboration with relevant stakeholders, including the Ministry of Women Affairs.