By Rita Okonkwo
The priest in charge of Arise and Shine Ministry Awka Pastor Chika Umennabuike has called on women to embrace their biblical role as mothers who nurture and protect children as gifts and blessings from God.
He condemned the alleged brutality, abuse and torture of 10-year-old Chiziterem in Anambra by Mrs Chioma Chukwunyere, a woman with whom he had been entrusted with the child’s care by a relative from their village.
According to the priest, the scripture describes children as innocent and vulnerable blessings from God, and repeatedly charges parents to nurture and safeguard them, while pronouncing stern warnings against those who harm them. Matthew 18:10.
Pastor Umennabuike commended Anambra State Government for ensuring that the perpetrator is held accountable; applauded the arrest of the caregiver, and prayed that justice prevails in the matter.
He also thanked Anambra State House of Assembly for demanding immediate arrest and prosecution of Mrs Chioma Chukwunyere over the gruesome abuse of a 10-year-old Chiziterem in accordance with the Child Rights Law.
Pastor Umennabuike further commended Dr. Nonye Soludo, wife of the governor, for visiting the child in hospital and for her sustained commitment to the welfare of vulnerable children.
Rita is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation Anambra State.
