Anambra Police, Stakeholders Unite Against Child Servitude And Early Marriage
By Chizoba Njaka
The Anambra State Police Command, in collaboration with various stakeholders, organized a campaign against domestic servitude and early child marriage on December 16, 2025, at the Pastoral Centre beside Roban Stores in Awka. The event was supported by the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Anambra State Ministry of Women Affairs, civil society organizations, community leaders, and concerned citizens.
According to a press release issued by the Anambra Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the event was organized by the Africa Faith and Justice Network (AFJN) in partnership with the Dominicans for Justice and Peace. The event highlighted that such practices contravene Nigerian laws, including the Child Rights Act and the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act, and infringe upon children's rights.
The statement emphasized that domestic servitude and early child marriage are criminal offenses that expose children to exploitation, abuse, and neglect, and deprive them of their rights. The practices can lead to health risks, psychological trauma, and lasting socio-economic harm, particularly for girls. The Anambra State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to investigating cases, rescuing victims, and prosecuting offenders.
It stated, the Command is strengthening partnerships with relevant agencies, including the Ministry of Women Affairs, social welfare bodies, traditional rulers, schools, and NGOs, to enhance prevention, protection, and rehabilitation efforts. The public is urged to prioritize the protection of children and report suspected cases of abuse, exploitation, or early marriage to the authorities.
The Anambra State Police Command emphasizes that eradicating these harmful practices demands a unified effort, and therefore, calls upon all stakeholders to collaborate in protecting children's rights and dignity, and fostering a culture of respect and justice.
The Command also reaffirms its dedication to safeguarding the welfare and rights of children and vulnerable groups, and will persist in its efforts with stakeholders to eliminate domestic servitude and early child marriage.