Abia revokes homes’ licences for violating child rights


FOLLOWING the faking of nursing homes, maternities and the urgent need to curb the violation of child rights, abductions, illegal adoption and other social vices targeted at children, the Abia State Government has approved the revalidation of such facilities.

With the revocation of their operation licences, the state has directed the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development to revalidate only those ascertained to be carrying out genuine functions in accordance with government’s stipulations.

The state said it was determined to check illegal movement of minors and sale of babies by such homes and persons in different guises. Recently, six such homes were sealed off and their operators arrested while over 48 pregnant girls and six infants were released in the process.

Meanwhile, the state has advised members of the public, who have need to adopt children, to liaise with the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development or risk prosecution.