Calls have intensified for stronger measures to protect children from sexual abuse, with a resident, Tom Akpan, urging parents, schools, communities and relevant authorities to take greater responsibility for the safety and wellbeing of minors.
Speaking with News Feast on the issue, Akpan said children remain particularly vulnerable to sexual abuse and require stronger protection systems, especially from individuals who have access to them.
His reaction follows the arrest of a suspect by the Cross River State Police Command over the alleged sexual assault of a 15-year-old girl in Calabar.
Akpan called for stronger child-protection measures in homes, schools and communities, urging adults to create safe environments where children can report abuse without fear.
He also stressed the importance of prompt reporting, proper investigation and appropriate support for survivors, saying perpetrators must be held accountable to protect other children from similar experiences.