By Josephine Oguntoyinbo
The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in Ondo State, Dr Olukayode Ajulo (SAN), has emphasised that every citizen has a moral and legal obligation to support child protection laws and uphold policies that defend children’s rights, shielding them from all forms of physical or mental abuse.
Dr Ajulo stated this while hosting members of the State Child Rights Implementation Committee in his office in Akure. He recalled that Ondo State domesticated the Child Rights Act in 2007 and has since aligned its policies and programmes with the protection and welfare of children.
According to him, the plight of children in the state is well reflected in the seven-point OUR EASE Agenda of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s administration. He said the government has prioritised the provision of essential services, enforcement of legal protections against abuse and exploitation, and ensured access to education, healthcare and other child welfare initiatives.
The Attorney-General commended members of the State Child Rights Implementation Committee for their efforts across the state, assuring that the government remains fully committed to policies that safeguard the rights of children.
Dr Ajulo urged the committee to contact his office whenever intervention is required, stressing that every child deserves adequate protection in society.
Earlier, the Head of the Committee and State Coordinator of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, Mrs Mogboruko Olanike, said the purpose of the visit was to seek stronger collaboration and understanding between the Ministry of Justice and the Committee in ensuring effective implementation of the Child Rights Act in Ondo State.
Mrs Mogboruko, while outlining the functions and achievements of the committee, called for increased government support, especially in updating and enforcing child rights laws in the state.
She also appealed for the allocation of more resources to the Child Rights Implementation Committee, the creation of Child Rights Desks in ministries and agencies, and improved access to education, healthcare and protection for children.
The coordinator, however, expressed appreciation to the Ondo State Government for domesticating the Child Rights Act and for its sustained commitment to policies aimed at protecting the rights and welfare of children.