By Peace Udugba — The Daily Torch Media
The Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV), Ogun State, has called for greater protection of the girl child, condemning child marriage and the denial of education as practices that undermine the rights, dignity and future of young girls.
In a message commemorating the International Day of the Girl Child, POCACOV Ogun stressed that girls should not be treated as instruments of poverty alleviation through early marriage but should be given opportunities to pursue education and achieve their aspirations.
The organisation described the practice of withdrawing girls from school and forcing them into marriage as unacceptable, emphasising that a girl child remains a child and should not be treated as a bride.
According to POCACOV Ogun, child marriage and the denial of education are forms of exploitation that can expose young girls to abuse and perpetuate cycles of poverty and social disadvantage.
The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to promoting the rights, safety and well-being of girls, urging parents, community leaders and other stakeholders to protect them from harmful practices.
It identified access to quality education, protection from abuse and exploitation, and the freedom to pursue personal ambitions as fundamental rights every girl deserves.
POCACOV Ogun further emphasised that efforts to protect the girl child must go beyond public awareness campaigns and extend to families, communities, cultural practices and decisions affecting girls’ welfare.
It called on Nigerians to challenge practices that deprive girls of education and expose them to early marriage, stressing the importance of creating an environment where every girl can develop her potential.
The organisation urged parents, guardians and community leaders to prioritise the education, safety and future of girls, noting that protecting them today would help prepare them for leadership and responsible participation in society tomorrow.
“Let us protect our girls today so they can lead tomorrow,” POCACOV Ogun said.
The International Day of the Girl Child provides an opportunity to renew public commitment to protecting girls’ rights, expanding access to education and ending harmful practices that threaten their development.
Tags: POCACOV Ogun, International Day of the Girl Child, child marriage, girl-child education, child protection, children’s rights, social vices, Ogun State
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