By Chukwuka Ugokwe
The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has reaffirmed the commitment of the state police command to combating child labour, safeguarding the rights and welfare of children across the state.
Speaking while receiving a delegation from Beecharity Outlook Foundation during a courtesy visit to the State Police Headquarters on June 12, in commemoration of the 2026 International Day Against Child Labour, the commissioner assured the organisation of the command’s readiness to support initiatives and enforce laws aimed at protecting children from exploitation.
CP Orutugu described child labour as a persistent social challenge that deprives children of their rights, education and opportunities for a better future, noting that many children are forced into labour due to systemic failures within families and society, emphasizing the need for sustained public enlightenment and stakeholder engagement.
The Police Commissioner stressed that awareness campaigns alone would not be sufficient to address the problem, calling for stricter enforcement of existing laws and prosecution of offenders.
«”We have to go beyond shouting. We have to go beyond enlightenment to law enforcement and prosecution to call parents to order,” he said.»
Earlier, the Chairman of Beecharity Outlook Foundation, Dr. Paul Nwosu, described the theme of this year’s commemoration, “Red Card to Child Labour: Fair Play for Children, Decent Work for Adults,” as timely and compelling.
He urged government agencies, civil society organisations, parents and community leaders to reject all forms of child exploitation and create an enabling environment where children can learn, grow and achieve their full potential.
According to him, every child engaged in street hawking or exploitative labour instead of being in school represents a loss not only to the child but also to society.
Dr. Nwosu, who is also the Publisher of AlphaTimes Media, underscored the importance of implementing effective child protection and welfare programmes to secure a brighter future for children.
«”Every child deserves not a burden to carry, but a dream to pursue. The future of our society is sitting today in our homes and communities. If we fail them today, we endanger tomorrow,” he said.»
Also speaking, the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department, DCP Wan Mantu Chongs, described child labour as a national concern requiring collective action from all stakeholders, assuring the foundation of the command’s operational support in efforts aimed at tackling the menace.
The State Legal Officer, CSP Anayo Nwano, called for stronger collaboration among relevant stakeholders, advocating strict implementation of the Child Rights Law as domesticated in Anambra State.
In her remarks, the Campaign Director of Beecharity Outlook Foundation, Blessing Iwuoba, expressed appreciation to the Police Commissioner and senior officers of the command for their commitment and willingness to support practical measures against child labour.
The event featured a symbolic “Red Card to Child Labour” demonstration, presentation of an advocacy T-shirt to the Commissioner of Police, recognition of the Foundation’s Chairman, and a collective declaration by participants reaffirming their resolve to end child labour.
Chukwuka Ugokwe is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
