The wife of the Governor of Cross River State, Bishop Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, has strongly condemned the alleged maltreatment of street children by officials of the Cross River State Environmental Sanitation and Protection Agency (CUDA).
In a statement issued by her Press Secretary, Faith Okon, Mrs Otu described the incident as deeply troubling and unacceptable, noting that it has also drawn widespread criticism from civil society organisations and other stakeholders.
She said the actions of the officials undermine the fundamental rights and dignity of some of the most vulnerable members of society.
“Every child, regardless of their circumstances, deserves protection, compassion, and the opportunity to live with dignity,” she stated.
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Mrs Otu, a recipient of a Child Protection Rights Award, called on relevant authorities to launch an immediate investigation into the allegations and ensure that any officials found culpable are held accountable in accordance with the law.
She stressed that institutions established to serve and protect the public must not become instruments of harm.
The governor’s wife further disclosed that her office is working closely with key stakeholders to develop sustainable and humane solutions to address the growing number of children living on the streets.
According to her, these efforts include rehabilitation, reintegration, access to education, and the provision of social support systems aimed at securing a better future for affected children.
“The life of every child in Cross River State matters,” she added.
Mrs Otu also noted that she has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to child welfare and protection across the state over the past year.
She reaffirmed her resolve to advocate for vulnerable children and ensure that none is subjected to abuse, neglect, or dehumanisation.
