Hon Ifeyinwa Obinabo serves as the Commissioner for Women Affairs in Anambra State. In a recent interview with DAILY POST, she expressed concern about the increasing incidents of rape, illegal child adoption, prostitution, and human trafficking, among other issues. She emphasized that Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration is committed to eradicating these illegal activities. Here are some key excerpts from her interview:
Q: You have been involved in arresting rapists, dismantling child prostitution networks, and ensuring justice for widows. Which of these tasks has been the most challenging for you?
A: Each task presents its unique challenges, as these criminal networks are often sophisticated and attempt to evade detection. However, remaining focused, understanding the case’s nuances, and asking the right questions to expose criminals are essential. Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s unwavering support greatly aids our efforts. His readiness to assist us in challenging situations is a significant advantage. When we need police support to address certain matters, he personally intervenes and provides guidance to the police.
Q: Can you share the challenges your ministry faces in addressing these issues in Anambra?
A: One of the primary challenges is that many victims do not come forward and speak about their experiences. Some women endure inhumane treatment, believing it is their fate simply because they are women. Our culture often favors men over women, discouraging women from holding men accountable for their actions. Additionally, the influence of social media has led some individuals to adopt foreign practices, contributing to an increase in issues such as rape. Drug addiction, for instance, is seen as a trend on social media and has become a concern.
Q: Do you receive additional funding from the Governor to support your work in the ministry?
A: No, we do not receive additional funding. We are given a mandate by the Governor and are instructed to carry out our work in alignment with his objectives. The Governor values passion and dedication, and he expects his appointees to be passionate about their work and contribute meaningfully. He assembles his team carefully, ensuring that individuals are well-suited for their roles.
Q: Can you provide an estimate of the number of convictions your ministry has secured, particularly in cases related to rape and other offenses?
A: We have successfully sent about ten individuals to jail, particularly those who committed rape at gunpoint. We have also secured convictions in cases of human trafficking, child abuse, child labor, and injustices against widows. However, due to the slow nature of Nigeria’s judicial system, there are ongoing trials for many more cases.
Q: What are some of the most prevalent issues you’ve encountered during your tenure as commissioner?
A: One recurring issue involves men taking their children away from their wives and sending the wives away. This situation has been occurring frequently in Anambra. Women are now learning to speak up, and we have been able to help them retrieve their children based on child rights laws.
Additionally, there are cases where individuals illegally adopt children, bypassing the necessary legal procedures. These cases require careful investigation to determine the source of the children.
Q: Could you explain the legal adoption process in Anambra State?
A: Legal adoption in Anambra involves several steps. Prospective adoptive parents must apply to the ministry, after which we initiate documentation and conduct investigations. We also inspect the prospective adoptive home to ensure it is suitable for the child and that the reasons for adoption are genuine. The child’s right law is strictly followed, and children are only handed over for adoption at our office. All necessary signatures, including mine, the permanent secretary’s, and a magistrate’s, must be on the adoption documents to make it legal.
In the case of Arrow of God Orphanage, the proprietor bypassed these procedures, and her actions were illegal.
Q: What would help your ministry to further its efforts?
A: While the government provides essential support, we also rely on the public’s assistance. Private individuals can contribute to our mission by providing support, such as the New York resident who started cooking for children in our care. We encourage whistleblowers to report cases of child abuse, women’s mistreatment, and other offenses. Evil acts must not be tolerated, and timely reporting is crucial to address these issues effectively. We value the information provided by the public, which guides our actions and helps us rescue children from illegal activities.