Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
Former United Nations Special Rapporteur on Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children, Professor Joy Ezeilo, has challenged the Nigeria political elite to empathise with children as they jostle for power ahead of the 2023 elections.
The founding Director, Women’s Aid Collective, WACOL, who gave the challenge in her Children’s Day message, regretted that the future of the Nigeria child no longer matters to the political elite in their desperation to actualise their political ambition.
According to her, “As Nigeria marks (27 May 2022) Children’s Day I dare ask what future for our dear children in a turbulent country like ours?
“I urge the political elites in particular as they jostle for power, which has become the swiftness means to become rich and important in Nigeria to deeply reflect and empathize with children – the future generations that would be impacted by their actions and decisions.
“Think about children’s future and act always in their best interests. Happy Children’s Day! And remember, children’s rights are human rights. Protect and respect their rights, including their right to be free from hunger and want, survival, and development.”