Children’s Day Celebration: Ambode Declares War on Violence Against Children
As Nigerian children join their counterparts in other part of the world to celebrate the annual May 27 Children’s Day , Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwumi Ambode has reassured children in Lagos State of his commitment towards ensuring that anyone who engages in any form of abuse and violence against any child shall be appropriately dealt with under the Law.
The Governor who was represented at the occasion by his Deputy, Dr (Mrs) Idiat Adebule said this at the Lagos State Children’s Day celebration held at Police College, Ikeja with the theme of this year “Stop Violence Against Children” which the Governor said it’s not only apt but timely because there is so much abuse against children.
“Violence against children; be it physical, sexual and psychological as well as deliberate neglect and above is becoming a norm than an aberration. The most confounding being rape of minors, kidnap and child trafficking . These are heinous crimes that are not acceptable in any civilized society and Lagos will not be an exception”, he said.
He assured the children of the readiness of his administration to demonstrate zero tolerance for child abuse as he cited the case of those involved in the kidnap of students of Babington Macaulay Junior Seminary in Ikorodu which are currently being dealt with according to the Law.
“In addition to bringing those involved in that criminal act to justice, I have directed that adequate security be provided around all public and private schools to forestall a recurrence in any part of our State”, he said.
The Lagos State helmsman disclosed further that his administration is investing heavily in creating a conducive environment for the children to develop their various talents, this he said is evident in the budgetary provision of N113.3 billion in the year 2016 budget for education which he said is about one third of the N369 billion budgeted by the Federal Government for the entire country.
He however urged the students to shun examination malpractices which he said is not only criminal and immoral but kills career when caught in the act adding that they should aim for better performance by preparing very hard for all examinations.
In his welcome address, Permanent Secretary Ministry of Education, Mr Adesina Odeyemi described Children’s Day as one dedicated to celebrate childhood and pay tribute to all leaders of tomorrow adding that the Day memorises about the importance of children in making the future of the country.
“In realization of the theme of this year’s event, which is to stop violence against children, all over the world, all hands must be on deck to protect and provide secured future for these children”, he said.
