Anambra State First Lady, Dr Nonye Soludo, has condemned the alleged sexual abuse and exploitation of a child in Onitsha, calling for a thorough police investigation and comprehensive rehabilitation for the four children rescued in connection with the case.
Her reaction follows the arrest of a woman, Anulika Onyeanusia, by the Anambra State Police Command over allegations of sexually abusing her underage daughter.
Police said four children were rescued and sextoys recovered from the suspect’s house, as investigations into the case continue.
In a statement on Saturday, Dr Soludo described the report as deeply disturbing, saying children should be protected, loved and provided with a safe environment to grow rather than be exposed to abuse or exploitation.
The First Lady commended the police and those whose information and intervention led to the rescue of the children, urging investigators to carry out a transparent, professional and comprehensive probe.
“I urge the police to conduct a thorough, transparent and professional investigation into this matter, leaving no stone unturned in establishing the full facts, identifying anyone else who may have been involved, and ensuring that where wrongdoing is established, the law takes its full course,” she said.
She stressed that rescuing the children was only the first step, insisting that equal attention should be given to their emotional, psychological and medical recovery.
According to her, she will monitor the case closely and work with relevant authorities and government agencies to ensure the children receive the medical, psychological, social and rehabilitation support needed for their recovery.
Dr Soludo also appealed to parents, guardians, neighbours and community members to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspected threats to the safety and dignity of children.
“Silence can never be an option when the safety of a child is at stake,” she said.
Reaffirming the state government’s stance against abuse, the First Lady said the Solution Administration remains committed to protecting women and children from all forms of violence, abuse and exploitation while ensuring justice is served where offences are established.
Meanwhile, the suspect, who had earlier been defiant when being arrested, insisting that the videos of her using sextoys on the children were AI-generated, has appealed for forgiveness from the general public.
In a latest video where she was seen in the custody of security agents, the suspect attributed her actions to the works of the devil, alleging that many others were also into the same act for the
money.
