JUSTICE FOR WAGBAFOR OSASENAGA ENGELS JNR 5-YEAR-OLD CHILD ALLEGEDLY ASSAULTED WITH HOT WATER IN EDO STATE

 JUSTICE FOR WAGBAFOR OSASENAGA ENGELS JNR  5-YEAR-OLD CHILD ALLEGEDLY ASSAULTED WITH HOT WATER IN EDO STATE

The case involving Wagbafor Osasenaga Engels Jnr, a five-year-old child in Edo State, deserves urgent attention from the relevant authorities, child-rights organisations, the media and the general public.

According to the information made available to us, the young child allegedly suffered serious burn injuries after hot water was poured on him during a dispute involving his mother and a woman identified as Osazeme Osaro.

We understand that the Police have been contacted and that an arrest was made in connection with the incident. However, there are concerns and allegations that individuals connected to the accused may be attempting to use financial resources, influence or prominent contacts to interfere with the process and push for an informal settlement.

These allegations should themselves be properly investigated. No individual should be condemned without due process, but equally, no child should be denied justice or protection because of money, influence or connections.

We therefore respectfully call on the relevant authorities to ensure:

 A full, transparent and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding the alleged assault.

 Proper medical documentation and protection of the child, including access to appropriate medical and psychosocial support.

 No intimidation, interference or improper settlement that could undermine a lawful investigation or the child's rights.

 Accountability in accordance with the law if the investigation establishes criminal responsibility.

 Protection of the child and his family from intimidation or retaliation throughout the investigative and judicial process.

The National Human Rights Commission has emphasized that allegations of child abuse should be taken seriously and investigated, with criminal conduct referred to the appropriate authorities.

Edo State has also publicly highlighted collaboration among its child-protection, social-welfare and law-enforcement institutions in responding to alleged child-abuse cases.

This is therefore not a call for mob justice. It is a call for lawful justice, transparency and protection of a vulnerable five-year-old child.

Let the evidence speak. Let the law take its course. Let the child's safety and rights remain paramount.

We appeal to journalists, child-rights advocates, civil-society organisations, the Nigeria Police, the National Human Rights Commission, the Edo State Government and all relevant authorities to pay attention to this case and ensure that it receives appropriate scrutiny.

A child's voice may be small, but his rights are not.

Please share responsibly so this matter reaches the appropriate authorities and child-protection organisations.

#JusticeForChuchu

#JusticeForWagbafor

#ChildProtectionNigeria

#ChildRights

#EndChildAbuse

#EdoState

#JusticeAndAccountability