Parents have been charged on the need to be vigilant as there could be rise in the operations of pedophiles and perpetrators of rape and sexual violence following the restriction in movement across the country.
The charge was made by Adeola Ekine, Chairperson, Nigerian Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, Lagos.
Ekine noted that as the lockdown continues in schools, offices, worship centers and markets across the country, as a way to check the spread of COVID-19, making children to stay at home, it is imperative that parents give adequate attention to their children so they are not susceptible to negative influences.
Ekine, an advocate for gender equality, safety of the girl child and the health and rights of women and girls, said it is important to keep sensitizing mothers to be vigilant, and be sensitive of the dangers the children, especially girls, could be exposed to, so that pedophiles do not prey on them.
She also reiterated the need for parents to teach their children the importance of their body and not shy away from educating them about sex from age 5 -6.
“As female journalists in Lagos State we will continue to advocate for non discrimination of the girl child, the right to survival and development of potential, protection from harmful influences, abuse and exploitation and full participation in family, cultural and social life of the girl child.”
Ekine commended the efforts of the Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, CP Hakeem Odumosu for arresting two people over allegedly defiling minors, 9 and 13 year old girls. Mothers are therefore advised not to let their wards out of their sights and avoid keeping their children with menders e.g. neighbors, uncles, teachers, friends etc.
Ekine stressed the need for mothers to be close to their children and let them find it easy to confide in their parents adding that, “as mothers it is our duty protect our children from predators, teach them to recognize inappropriate behaviors around them because most pedophile are known to the children.”