Child abuse: Nonye Soludo demands thorough investigation, support for rescued children

AWKA — Anambra State Governor’s wife, Dr Nonye Soludo, has called for a thorough investigation into the alleged sexual abuse of a child in Onitsha, describing the reported incident as “deeply disturbing.”

The call followed the arrest of 36-year-old Anulika Onyeanusia by the Anambra State Police Command on September 10, 2026, over the alleged abuse.

The police said the suspect was arrested after open-source intelligence led authorities to a disturbing video allegedly showing her using sex toys on a minor.

Four children, aged two, three, six and nine, were rescued during the police operation, while sex toys and other items were recovered.

The suspect is currently in police custody as investigators work to establish what happened and determine whether other people may have been involved.

According to the police, the suspect’s husband is also being interrogated as part of efforts to determine whether he had any connection with the alleged offence.

Reacting to the case, Mrs Soludo condemned the alleged exploitation of the child and said the abuse of vulnerable children was beyond comprehension.

She stressed that children must be protected and provided with a safe and loving environment in which to grow.

“No child deserves to experience such trauma, and no society should ever become comfortable with the abuse of its most vulnerable,” she said.

The governor’s wife praised the police and members of the public whose information helped authorities rescue the children.

“I commend the Anambra State Police Command and everyone whose information and intervention led to the rescue of these children,” she said.

She called for a professional and transparent investigation, urging authorities to establish the full facts, identify any other persons who may have participated in the alleged offence and prosecute wrongdoing where it is established.

“My heart is particularly with the four rescued children. Beyond the immediate rescue, we must be concerned about what happens to them afterwards. The physical safety of a child is only the beginning; we must also heal the emotional and psychological wounds that may have been inflicted,” she said.

Mrs Soludo said she would remain engaged with the relevant authorities to monitor the case and ensure that the rescued children receive adequate protection.

She also promised to work with appropriate government agencies to explore medical, psychological, social and rehabilitation support for the children.

“I will also be engaging with the appropriate government agencies to see how we can provide the necessary medical, psychological, social and rehabilitation support to help these children begin the difficult journey towards healing and recovery,” she said.

She urged members of the public, particularly parents, guardians, neighbours and community leaders, to be alert and report any conduct that threatens the safety or dignity of children.

“I also appeal to everyone, especially parents, guardians, neighbours and members of our communities, to remain vigilant and speak up whenever they notice anything that threatens the safety or dignity of a child,” she said.

Mrs Soludo maintained that people should not remain silent when children are at risk, adding that the Anambra State Government would continue its opposition to violence, abuse and exploitation against women and children.

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