By Juliana Nwachukwu
The Civil Liberties Organization (CLO), Anambra State Branch, has strongly condemned the alleged brutalization of Master Chiziterem by his guardian, describing the act as barbaric, inhuman and indicative of the growing abuse of vulnerable children in society.
In a statement issued on June 19, and jointly endorsed by the State Chairman, Comrade Vincent Ezekwueme, and Chidi Mba, the organization said the incident highlights a disturbing culture in which acts of cruelty against children are often witnessed by neighbours and community members who choose to remain silent.
The statement, titled “We Are Murderers the Moment We See Evil and Fail to Speak Against It,” emphasizing that silence in the face of wrong doing only emboldens perpetrators, enabling injustice to thrive.
According to the organization, “evil triumphs when good people choose comfort over courage and convenience over conscience,” stressing the need for citizens to speak out whenever they observe abuse or violations of human rights.
The CLO called on Ndi Anambra to embrace the responsibility of being their brother’s keeper by promptly reporting cases of child abuse, domestic violence and other forms of rights violations.
It urged residents to report such incidents to the Nigeria Police Force Gender and Child Protection Unit, the Anambra State Ministry of Women and Children Affairs, the National Human Rights Commission, or other credible civil society organizations, advocating stronger protection for whistleblowers to encourage timely reporting.
The organization commended individuals and groups who drew public attention to Master Chiziterem’s ordeal, as well as those who provided financial support, medical assistance and emotional care to the child.
Special recognition was given to Dr. Nonye Soludo, Wife of the Governor of Anambra State and Founder of the Healthy Living Initiative, Chief Tony Nwa Umeh, and other well-meaning Nigerians for their intervention and support.
The CLO expressed appreciation to Hon. Lyda Ikpeazu and Hon. Mimi Azikiwe for their assistance to Mrs. Ujunwa Chinecherem, who delivered a baby at Pieta Hospital, Awada, but was unable to offset her medical bills, noting that Mrs. Chinecherem remains under medical care as her hospital expenses have yet to be fully settled.
The rights group called on the Nigeria Police Force and the Anambra State Ministry of Women and Children Affairs to ensure the prosecution of the alleged perpetrator in accordance with the Child Rights Act and the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act.
It urged schools, churches and community leaders to intensify child protection awareness campaigns, establishing effective reporting channels, while calling on government to strengthen child protection units, supporting shelters for vulnerable children.
Describing the case as a wake-up call for society, the CLO maintained that no child should be subjected to torture or abuse under the guise of discipline or guardianship.
“Anambra must be a safe home for every child,” the organization stated, urging residents to reject the culture of silence and take action whenever a child’s welfare is threatened.
Juliana Nwachukwu is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
