C’River Govt Condemns Alleged Maltreatment Of Street Children, Orders Immediate Investigation

CALABAR – The Cross River State Government has issued a strong condemnation of alleged maltreatment of street children, describing the incidents as disturbing, unacceptable, and contrary to human dignity.

The Office of the Wife of the Governor made the position known in an official press release issued in Calabar on March 25, 2026.

Her Excellency, Bishop Dr. (Mrs.) Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, expressed deep concern over reported cases involving officials of the Cross River State Environmental Sanitation and Protection Agency.

According to the statement, the alleged actions of some agency personnel have raised serious questions about the protection of vulnerable children across the state.

Mrs. Otu stated that such incidents undermine the fundamental rights and dignity of street children, who remain among the most vulnerable members of society.

She stressed that every child, regardless of background or circumstance, deserves protection, compassion, and the opportunity to live with dignity and purpose.

“These incidents are not only disturbing but wholly unacceptable, as they undermine the fundamental rights and dignity of vulnerable members of our society,” she said.

The statement noted that her office has consistently championed child protection initiatives, reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding children from abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

It further recalled that Mrs. Otu received a Child Protection Rights Award in the previous year for her sustained advocacy and intervention programs.

The recognition, the statement added, has strengthened her resolve to remain a voice for children who cannot defend themselves against systemic or institutional abuse.

She warned that institutions established to serve and protect citizens must not become instruments of harm or vehicles for human rights violations.

Calling for urgent action, Mrs. Otu directed all relevant authorities to immediately investigate the allegations and ensure accountability where culpability is established.

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“Any official found culpable must be held accountable in accordance with the law to serve as a deterrent to others,” she stated in the release.

Sources within the state’s child welfare network indicated that reports of harassment and forceful treatment of street children have surfaced intermittently in recent months.

These reports, according to advocacy groups, highlight systemic gaps in child protection enforcement and the need for stronger oversight mechanisms.

A senior official familiar with the matter said authorities are already reviewing operational procedures within the sanitation agency to prevent further violations.

The government reiterated that enforcement operations must always align with legal frameworks and respect the rights of all individuals, especially minors.

Mrs. Otu emphasized that governance must prioritize humanity, noting that the treatment of vulnerable populations reflects the moral standing of leadership.

She added that the state government remains committed to ensuring that no child is subjected to dehumanization under any circumstances.

Furthermore, the statement revealed that her office is actively collaborating with stakeholders to develop sustainable, humane, and long-term solutions.

These solutions, according to the release, will focus on rehabilitation, reintegration, and access to education for children living on the streets.

Officials also plan to expand social support systems aimed at addressing the root causes of street migration among children in urban centers.

An insider within the Ministry of Social Welfare confirmed that inter-agency coordination efforts are being strengthened to improve response mechanisms.

The source disclosed that discussions are ongoing with civil society organizations to design community-based interventions targeting at-risk children.

Experts argue that poverty, family dislocation, and lack of access to education continue to drive the increasing number of street children.

They insist that enforcement alone cannot solve the problem without comprehensive social policies that address underlying socioeconomic challenges.

Mrs. Otu’s office acknowledged these complexities and reaffirmed its commitment to adopting a holistic approach in tackling the issue.

The statement stressed that long-term success depends on collaboration between government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and community leaders.

It also highlighted the importance of public awareness in changing societal attitudes towards street children and vulnerable populations.

Advocates have welcomed the government’s swift response, describing it as a positive step towards accountability and institutional reform.

However, they urged authorities to ensure that investigations are transparent and that outcomes are made public to build trust.

A child rights activist, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said previous cases often lacked follow-through, weakening public confidence in enforcement processes.

The activist added that consistent monitoring and evaluation will be critical in ensuring that policy directives translate into real protection on the ground.

Meanwhile, residents in Calabar expressed mixed reactions, with some calling for stricter discipline among enforcement officers and others demanding systemic reforms.

A local community leader said the issue reflects deeper social challenges that require both compassion and structured government intervention.

The government reiterated that its priority remains the welfare and protection of every child within Cross River State.

Mrs. Otu concluded the statement by reaffirming that the life of every child in the state matters and must be protected.

“The life of every child in Cross River State matters, and we will continue to work tirelessly to secure a better future for them,” she stated.

The press release was signed by Faith Okon, Press Secretary to the Wife of the Governor, on behalf of the office.

Observers say the coming weeks will be critical in determining whether the government’s directives translate into concrete action and measurable outcomes.

They also note that sustained political will and institutional accountability will be essential in addressing the broader issue of child welfare in the state.