In a bold step towards protecting the rights of children, members of the Ebonyi State Children’s Parliament representing all three senatorial zones have called for the enactment of legislation to prohibit child marriage in the state.
The call was made in Abakaliki during a formal presentation of a communiqué to the Chief Judge of Ebonyi State, Justice Elvis Ngene, outlining key challenges affecting the welfare and development of children. The presentation highlighted critical issues such as the absence of functional science laboratories, libraries, potable water, and adequate infrastructure in schools.
Miss Precious Ibiam, the Speaker of the Children’s Parliament, emphasized the urgent need for government intervention. She advocated for the recruitment of specialized teachers, including guidance counselors, sign language interpreters, and instructors for students with special needs. According to her, the lack of these resources hinders quality education and practical learning across schools in Ebonyi.
Ibiam also called for the subsidization of essential social services, noting that economic hardship often forces families into child labor and early marriage. “The Children’s Parliament strongly condemns child marriage,” she stated. “Many parents and young girls are unaware of its dangers, including the high risk of Vesicovaginal Fistula (VVF) among teenage brides. We are calling for widespread sensitization on the legal implications and health risks of early marriage.”
She urged the government to intensify awareness campaigns and take legal action against those who engage in or promote child marriage. The parliament also recommended expanding access to healthcare by establishing more hospitals and subsidizing medical services, especially for school children and elderly low-income citizens.
Mr. George Etamesor, Director of the Human Rights and Conflict Resolution Centre (HRCRC), Abakaliki, explained that the Children’s Parliament is made up of democratically elected child representatives who contribute to governance and policy through structured deliberations. He revealed that HRCRC, in collaboration with the Ebonyi State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, recently organized zonal parliamentary sittings to reinvigorate the children’s legislative body.
The sessions addressed pressing issues such as education, health, child labor, trafficking, and parenting.
Justice Franklin Edem, representing the State Chief Judge, assured the young legislators of the judiciary’s support. He commended their efforts and pledged to uphold their recommendations, encouraging them to maintain integrity and dedication under HRCRC’s mentorship.
Copies of the communiqué were also submitted to the Speaker of the Ebonyi State House of Assembly, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, and the Coordinator of the State’s Gender-Based Taskforce.
Stay updated with Ebonyi News Network for real-time reports, in-depth analysis, and exclusive coverage of policies shaping Ebonyi State.
