By Scholastica Joseph, Makurdi
A former vice chairman of Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, Makurdi branch, Maimuna Ikwulono Esq, has said that most of the security challenges in the country was due to lack of attention to quality education of the young ones.
Barr. Ikwulono, who spoke to the Abuja Inquirer in Makurdi on the occasion of 2022 Children’s Day, said the importance of education to children cannot be over-emphasised because it is their right.
She expressed the hope that the occasion draws the required attention to that very important need which is a the right for the children and ensure that practicing action is taken by concerned authorities.
“May 27th, is a special day earmarked to celebrate our children universally. We join all lovers of children in all sphere of life to congratulate our precious seeds and future as they celebrate the children’s day.
“A lot has been done to protect and secure the rights of these vulnerable class of citizens internationally, nationally and at the State levels. The day affords us opportunity to reflect on their plights and needs.
“The UNICEF has estimated a whooping 18million children being out of school and worst hit are conflicts states including Benue.
“No doubt, it was in recognition of the very important position children occupy in society and its future that the Child’s Rights Act 2003 was enacted in the country. Thankfully, many states, including Benue, have since domesticated same and incorporated it into their laws.”
She said while that is commendable and a harbinger of hope for a greater and secured tomorrow for the children, “It is, however, a fact that not all states have taken this bold step and one wonders the fate and extent of protection of rights the children enjoy in such environments.”
Ikwulono also expressed worry concerning the absence of functional family courts to enforce these rights saying the law becomes meaningless when it lacks the essential facilities for its implementation.
She hoped that in the spirit of the children’s day celebration, the relevant authorities will hasten to put in place the necessary modalities for the take off of the family court so as to guarantee, secure and enforce the rights of the children.
