The Anambra State Police Command on Tuesday joined key stakeholders in a renewed advocacy against domestic servitude and early child marriage, describing the practices as criminal acts that threaten the future of children and society at large.
The advocacy event, held at the Pastoral Centre beside Roban Stores in Awka, brought together the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), the Anambra State Ministry of Women Affairs, civil society organisations, community leaders and concerned citizens.
Speaking at the forum, participants noted that domestic servitude and early child marriage constitute serious violations of children’s rights and are punishable under Nigerian laws, including the Child Rights Act and the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act, as applicable in Anambra State.
They stressed that every child has the right to education, dignity, safety and a nurturing environment, warning that denying children these rights undermines national development and social stability.
The event was organised by the Africa Faith and Justice Network (AFJN) in collaboration with the Dominicans for Justice and Peace, as part of sustained efforts to protect vulnerable children from abuse and exploitation.
Speakers at the gathering highlighted that domestic servitude often exposes children to neglect, physical and emotional abuse, and deprivation of basic needs, while early child marriage places minors—especially girls—at risk of health complications, psychological trauma and lifelong economic disadvantages.
The Anambra State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to the protection of children and other vulnerable persons, pledging to investigate reported cases, rescue victims and ensure that offenders are prosecuted in line with the law.
The Command also disclosed that it is strengthening collaboration with the Ministry of Women Affairs, social welfare agencies, traditional institutions, schools and non-governmental organisations to boost prevention, protection and rehabilitation efforts across the state.
Parents, guardians, employers and community leaders were urged to act responsibly by ensuring that children are enrolled in school and protected from exploitation, servitude or forced marriage.
The Police further encouraged residents to report suspected cases of child abuse, exploitation or early marriage to the nearest police station or relevant authorities, assuring the public that all reports would be handled with professionalism and confidentiality.
Reiterating that law enforcement alone cannot end the menace, the Command called for collective action to safeguard the rights of children and build a society founded on justice, respect and human dignity, urging citizens to say no to domestic servitude and early child marriage.
