The West Africa Network for Child Protection (WAN), in collaboration with the Centre for Legal Orientation and Humanitarian Aid Initiative (CELOHA Nigeria), has strongly condemned the alleged rape and sexual abuse of four minor girls by a school teacher in Dan Tamashe Community, Kano State.
The groups described the incident as a grave violation of the rights, dignity, and safety of children, expressing concern over the protection of pupils within learning environments.
According to the organisations, schools are meant to serve as safe spaces where children can learn and develop, not environments where they are exposed to abuse, exploitation, or trauma.
WAN and CELOHA Nigeria also raised alarm over what they described as a growing trend of sexual violence against children, as well as a culture of silence and impunity that often surrounds such cases. They stressed that all forms of child abuse are unacceptable and must be addressed with swift legal action.
The groups called on the Kano State Government, the Nigeria Police Force, the Kano State Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Women Affairs, and other relevant child protection agencies to ensure an immediate, transparent, and impartial investigation into the allegation.
They further demanded that, if the suspect is found guilty, he should be promptly prosecuted, while also insisting on the protection of the identities and dignity of the survivors.
The organisations also urged authorities to ensure the affected children receive medical care, psychosocial support, and counselling, alongside stronger child safeguarding systems in schools and improved reporting mechanisms for cases of abuse.
They emphasised that protecting children is a collective responsibility requiring urgent action from government institutions, schools, parents, religious leaders, traditional authorities, and civil society organisations.
WAN and CELOHA Nigeria reaffirmed their commitment to child protection advocacy, accountability, and justice for victims of abuse, stating that no child should suffer in silence.
