Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, has granted a full scholarship to little Miss Happiness Nwafor, a minor from Enugu who was subjected to brutal abuse by her guardian, Mrs. Adachukwu Okafor from Anambra.
Okafor, a lawyer, was detained by a Children’s, Sexual, and Gender-Based Violence Court at the Chief Magistrate Court in Awka for allegedly using sharp objects to harm the girl’s private parts due to incomplete household chores.
Previously, Okafor had claimed before the Anambra State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare that the girl’s injuries were self-inflicted while attempting to escape punishment.
After being declared wanted by the Minister of Women’s Affairs with a bounty on her head, Okafor turned herself in at a police station in Awka.
Governor Mbah announced the scholarship on Wednesday, which will cover Miss Nwafor’s education from primary school to university.
In addition, he sanctioned her ongoing rehabilitation to ensure that her trauma does not hinder her present or future well-being.
The state government expressed strong disapproval of the recurring abuse cases involving minors employed as domestic help, emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy towards violence and exploitation of children by parents and guardians, deeming such actions uncivilized and warranting severe repercussions.
Speaking in Enugu during the formal transfer of the rescued minor to the Enugu State Scholarship and Education Loan Board for necessary documentation and educational progression, Governor Mbah reiterated the state’s commitment to citizens’ welfare through targeted policies and programs aimed at enhancing their quality of life while safeguarding their dignity.
Represented by the Commissioner for Children, Gender Affairs, and Social Development, Mrs. Ngozi Enih, the governor highlighted the significance of empowering Miss Happiness Nwafor, a resident of Umuanigo Clan, Enugu Oweri in Awgu Local Government Area, to pursue her aspirations.
“By rescuing the minor from her abusive guardian and providing comprehensive rehabilitation and a scholarship, Governor Mbah ensures that Miss Happiness can realize her potential like any other child,” Mrs. Enih affirmed.
The administration’s commitment to constructing modern schools and implementing free and compulsory basic education underscores the governor’s dedication to preventing child deprivation and upholding their rights, in alignment with the Child Rights and Responsibility Law of Enugu State.
Assuring full compliance with the governor’s directive, Mr. Peter Nkwuo, the Head of Administration at the Enugu State Scholarship and Education Loans Board, pledged unwavering support to actualize the educational initiative without room for failure.
Commending the governor’s swift intervention, Mr. Nkwuo acknowledged the agency’s robust collaboration with the administration in executing impactful initiatives.
Mrs. Nwanneka Anioke, Miss Happiness’ mother, expressed gratitude for Governor Mbah’s compassionate gesture towards her family and others in need, underscoring the relief brought by the scholarship and rehabilitation efforts for her daughter’s complete recovery.
Initiating from a viral video on February 1, 2024, the distressing incident prompted swift action from the Enugu State government in conjunction with Anambra State authorities to rescue the 11-year-old victim from the custody of her employer, Mrs. Adachukwu Okafor.