In a swift and courageous intervention, the Abia State Ministry of Women Affairs has rescued a 7-year-old boy, Master Ugochukwu Destiny, from harrowing domestic abuse allegedly inflicted by his biological father and stepmother in Osisioma, near Aba.
Acting on a distress call received through the Office of the Wife of the Governor, Mrs. Priscilla Otti,a prominent advocate for child protection,the Ministry immediately dispatched a rescue team to the boy’s school and residence located at 27 Ugo Street, off Adaelu Road.
The child, a pupil in Basic 1, was retrieved in visibly distressed condition, while the stepmother, identified as Kelechi, reportedly displayed no emotion during the intervention.
The operation was led by Mrs. Josephine Onulaka, Director of Child Development, representing the State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Dr. (Mrs.) Maureen Aghukwa, and the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Ogechi Oguama.
“Our duty is clear: from birth to 17 years, every child in this state is under our watch. When abuse is evident, we move in—without delay,” said Dr. Aghukwa in a statement delivered by Onulaka.
The boy has since been taken into protective government custody, in accordance with Abia State child protection protocols. The Ministry has assured the public that he will be placed in a government-approved shelter while undergoing medical and psychological evaluation.
In his testimony, young Ugochukwu tearfully recounted enduring routine beatings with wooden sticks and sharp objects, allegedly at the hands of his father, Mr. Ezechinyere Ugochukwu, and stepmother. He complained of constant pain, especially in his head. His father has since been arrested by law enforcement officials.
“This is not just a family matter,this is a criminal act,” said the Commissioner. “We urge community members to break the silence. Report what you see. Your voice can save a life.”
Mrs. Otti, through her office, continues to champion child welfare in Abia State, using school outreaches and grassroots campaigns to raise awareness about child rights and abuse prevention.
This case underscores the urgent need for stronger community vigilance and stricter enforcement of child protection laws across Nigeria. The Ministry is calling for an active partnership with the public to combat the growing menace of domestic child abuse.
