Former Governor of Abia and Senator-elect, Abia North Senatorial District, Dr Orji Uzor Kalu has decried the spate of child trafficking, child abuse and vices across the country.
He expressed worry that many innocent children have been abused emotionally and physically.
In a statement sent to Igbere TV to commemorate the 2019 Children’s Day, Kalu called for stringent punishment for perpetrators of these evil acts.
He admonished government at all levels to enact child friendly laws that would guarantee the rights of children.
While noting that family is the smallest unit of the society, the former governor stressed on the need for families to uphold good ethical behavior for the sake of building a decent society.
Kalu, who admonished the younger generation to demonstrate good moral in their pursuits, urged policy makers to formulate policies that would mitigate social vices among youths.
He acknowledged the role of parents in the lives of children, stressing that the older generation must build and sustain worthy legacies for the younger generation to emulate and uphold.
While wishing Nigerians a hitch-free Children’s Day celebration, the Senator-elect urged the younger generation to live a decent life, stressing that as leaders of tomorrow, the future was bright for them if only they behaved in a credible manner.
“I join parents, children and other stakeholders in celebrating the 2019 Children’s Day.
“It is a day set aside to acknowledge, appreciate and celebrate children.
“Government must initiate and execute policies and programmes that will help to identify and develop the full potential of children.
“Children of today are the leaders of tomorrow and as such we must bring them up properly with the right skills, attitude and mindset to prepare them for future challenges.
“The rights of a child must be respected and duly protected.
“Children deserve quality life anchored on sound education, proper mentorship and counselling, quality healthcare, freedom of movement, freedom of discrimination,among others.
“If we don’t instill good moral conduct in our children and wards, we cannot build a good society.
“Nigerians must appreciate children and support them in their pursuits for us to build a prosperous nation,” the statement read.
