On September 26, 2026, Nollywood actress and former Governorship candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Comrade Chioma Ifemeludike, led a peaceful protest against child abuse in Awka, the capital of Anambra State. The protest, which started from Ekwueme Square, drew hundreds of demonstrators who marched through the city, carrying placards with messages such as "We Say No To Sexual Molestation" and "Child Abusers Will Face Life Imprisonment." Ifemeludike's Comrade Chioma Grace Ifemeludike Ministry (CGIM) organized the protest to raise awareness about the issue of child abuse and to push for stronger laws to protect children.
The protesters attempted to access the Jerome Udoji State Secretariat and the Government House (Light House), but were prevented from doing so by security agents, including operatives of Nigeria Decides and the Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). Ifemeludike was eventually able to address Governor Soludo's representative, Hon. Egbuna, at the Government House, where she expressed her concerns about the prevalence of child abuse in the state. She called on Governor Chukwuma Soludo and his wife, Dr. Nonye Soludo, to intervene and take a stronger stance against child abuse.
Ifemeludike condemned parents and guardians who engage in inhumane practices, such as watching pornographic films with their children, using physical punishment, or denying children food or locking them up as punishment. She emphasized that these actions are not only morally reprehensible but also punishable by law. The Nollywood actress-turned-activist also highlighted the importance of protecting children, stating that they have talents and skills that can be nurtured and developed.
The protest also drew the attention of the State House of Assembly, where Ifemeludike's loudspeaker disturbed the plenary session. The Speaker, RT. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze, stood down proceedings for 30 minutes to allow lawmakers to interact with the protesters. Ifemeludike used the opportunity to call on the State Assembly to strengthen existing laws against child abuse, advocating for life imprisonment for serious cases.
Ifemeludike appreciated the lawmakers for making laws that protect and promote children's rights but requested more stringent laws and effective implementation measures. She emphasized the need for partnership with the legislature and sought stronger punitive measures against offenders, including life imprisonment, while ensuring due process and adequate protection for child victims and witnesses.
The Chairman of the Anambra State House of Assembly Committee on Women Affairs, Hon. Mimi Ikpeazu, acknowledged the concerns raised by Ifemeludike and the protesters, but noted that the major challenge was not the absence of laws, but implementation. The Majority Leader of the State House of Assembly, Sir Ikenna Ofodeme, assured of a fruitful partnership with the House in the fight against child rights violations.
The protest and Ifemeludike's advocacy have brought attention to the issue of child abuse in Anambra State, highlighting the need for stronger laws and more effective implementation. The incident has also underscored the importance of collaboration between lawmakers, activists, and citizens in protecting children's rights and promoting a safer environment for them to grow and develop.
Key points
- Comrade Chioma Ifemeludike led a protest against child abuse in Anambra State, calling for life imprisonment for offenders.
- The protest drew attention to the need for stronger laws and more effective implementation to protect children's rights.
- Ifemeludike advocated for partnership with the legislature and stronger punitive measures against offenders.
