PORT HARCOURT – The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Rivers State Chapter, has joined growing national outrage over the horrific abuse of a 14-year-old student at Christ Ambassador International Mission School, Eagle Island Obio-Akpor LGA, where teachers allegedly flogged and burned the child with a hot iron over unproven theft allegations.
In a strongly-worded statement, NAWOJ Rivers Chairperson Susan Serekara-Nwikhana declared:
“This is utterly condemnable! What is ₦30,000 compared to a child’s life? We are shocked that in this 21st century, such medieval torture is being meted out to a minor based on mere accusations. The mother, pastors, and teachers involved must face the full wrath of the law.”*
The association particularly criticized the religious leaders involved, questioning: “Which God told them it was this girl? We have too many pastors in Nigeria spreading confusion rather than truth. This reckless finger-pointing has now endangered a child’s life.”
NAWOJ Rivers is demanding:
– Immediate arrest and prosecution of all teachers involved in the torture
– Investigation of the pastor who allegedly instigated the false accusation
– Psychological evaluation and support for the traumatized victim
– Sanctions against the school, including potential license revocation.
E-Signed
Susan Serekara-Nwikhana
Chairperson
Precious Ahiakwo-Ovie
Secretary
