By Demola Akinyemi, Ilorin

The Kwara state government has reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance on child abuse, gender-based violence or sexual abuse with a call on residents to report any cases of abuse or violence to relevant authorities, assuring that such would be treated with absolute confidence.

The Commissioner for Women Affairs, Chief Mrs. Opeyemi Oluwakemi Afolashade, made this known today while addressing journalists at the quarterly inter-ministerial press briefing in Ilorin.

The Commissioner who expressed the strong determination of the government’s abhorrence to child abuse, sexual abuse and gender-based violence said the ministry in the last two years, successfully prosecuted two criminals accused of sexual abuse and were sentenced to life imprisonment by courts.

“Everyone, particularly men who have traces of behaving irrationally should be very careful henceforth.

“Reports of the two criminals we successfully prosecuted by the grace of God were brought to us by people. So, neighbours and people around can report any case of child abuse, sexual abuse of gender-based violence to us . We will treat such cases in absolute confidence, come in and take them over and do the needful. “the Commissioner said.

She also cautioned parents and guardians to familiarize themselves with the Child Rights Act and the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law, both of which are designed to safeguard the rights of children and protect against gender-based violence.

She said,”No mark of beaten on any child is allowed henceforth,it’s against the law.There are other legal means you can train a child without inflicting any injury on him or her.”

Hon. Afolashade said these laws are clear on the penalties for anyone who violates the rights of children or engages in gender-based violence, warning that the State Government will not hesitate to ensure that offenders face the full wrath of the law.”

The commissioner said the government, is determined to create a safer environment for children and vulnerable individuals, stressing the importance of community vigilance and cooperation in achieving this goal.

She also urged citizens to support the government’s efforts to curb abuse, assuring that all reported cases will be treated with absolute confidence, urgency and the seriousness they deserve.

Her counterpart in Solid Minerals Development, Dr Abolore Alabi said that the state government is fostering a stronger relationship with the Federal Government and security agencies to address the challenges posed by illegal mining activities.

Unveiling the state strategic plans to combat illegal mining activities across the state in 2025, Dr. Abolore said the Federal Government and security agencies is key to curbing the menace of illegal mining and ensuring the safety of all stakeholders involved.

He further noted that the newly inaugurated local government chairmen are collaborating with the ministry to address the issue, adding that the council chairmen, are actively engaging community associations to sensitize residents about the dangers of illegal mining and the importance of adopting lawful practices.

As part of the measures, the commissioner revealed that a summit involving traditional rulers and stakeholders in the mining sector will soon be convened.

The summit he stressed aims to brainstorm on sustainable solutions to tackle illegal mining and enhance the sector’s development.

Dr. Abolore also highlighted the government’s efforts to promote safer mining practices by collaborating with the Federal Government to obtain mining licenses for operators under the state’s supervision.

“We are committed to ensuring that miners operate legally and responsibly to boost economic growth and protect our environment,” he added.

The commissioner reiterated the administration’s determination to harness the state’s mineral resources responsibly while ensuring the welfare of host communities and environmental sustainability.

“With these initiatives, the state government hopes to create a safer and more regulated mining sector that contributes significantly to Kwara’s economic development,” he added.