As part of its 16 days of activism against gender-based violence, the Delta State Government through the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community and Social Development has provided financial support to a woman wrongly accused of child abuse.
The gesture recognizes her commitment to caregiving and underscores the state government’s dedication to supporting those who nurture vulnerable children.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Women Affairs and Chairperson of the Delta State Child Rights Implementation Committee, Mrs. Oghenekevwe Agas, made the presentation during a committee meeting.
The decision to reward the woman arose during deliberations on the need to not only punish offenders of child rights but also to celebrate caregivers who demonstrate compassion and commitment to raising vulnerable children.
The incident that brought the woman to the committee’s attention began with a viral video of a young girl fetching water with a large iron bucket, which was reported as a potential case of child abuse.
Awele Ideal, a committee member and Comrade Patrick Ochei immediately launched an investigation to uncover the truth behind the allegation.
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Their findings revealed that the girl was not a victim of abuse. Instead, she chose to use the larger bucket after breaking her smaller one.
It was further discovered that the woman and her husband, despite their modest means as petty traders, treated the child as their own. They had enrolled her in the same school as their children and ensured she was included in all aspects of family life.
Recognizing her efforts, the Delta State Child Rights Implementation Committee resolved to provide financial assistance to help the woman grow her business.
This support aligns with the goals of the 16 days of activism against gender-based violence, which seeks to spotlight and encourage positive actions toward protecting and nurturing vulnerable individuals, particularly women and children.