The Centre for the Advancement and Protection of the Rights of Vulnerable People (CAPRIGHTS-VP) has urged for more robust measures to safeguard child domestic workers (CDWs) from maltreatment.

This appeal was made during a school sensitisation outreach held yesterday at the assembly ground of the Muslim Junior College, Egbe. Themed “Protecting Child Domestic Workers from Maltreatment,” the event highlighted the plight of CDWs and the need for collective action.

Over 800 students and more than 20 teachers attended the event. Ngozi Arinze, the organisation’s Grant and Programme Manager, led the engagement by educating students on their five fundamental rights: education, health, safety, family life, and recreation. She pointed out that while some child domestic workers receive good treatment from their guardians or employers, many endure harsh conditions, lack access to education and healthcare, and are deprived of their rights.

Citing the Child Rights Law, Arinze stressed that the child’s best interest must always be prioritised. She called on society to protect children working as house helpers, commonly called “omo-odo.”

The Project Coordinator, Mercy Joshua, facilitated an interactive session conducted in Yoruba, aligning with the school’s Yoruba-Speaking Day observed every Wednesday in Lagos State public schools. “Every child has the right to education, just like each of you here today. No child should be deprived of this right, as education is the foundation of a brighter future,” she said. She added that education not only shapes children into responsible adults but also helps reduce the number of dysfunctional families in society.

Students participated in group discussions during which some acknowledged the presence of CDWs in their school. They pledged to report any cases of abuse within their school, community, or homes.

Joshua encouraged students and teachers to report instances of child abuse or maltreatment, particularly involving CDWs, to CAPRIGHTS-VP. She assured that all reports would be handled confidentially and referred to the appropriate authorities through the organisation’s partnerships with government agencies, health institutions, and other NGOs.

Ugwueze Chinecherem, the organisation’s communications officer, demonstrated how to use the toll-free helplines, 0800 800 8001 and 0800 004 4444. She highlighted that the calls are free, removing financial barriers to reporting abuse or rights violations.

The school’s principal, Mrs Olatunji, expressed gratitude to CAPRIGHTS-VP for its dedication to protecting vulnerable children. She urged teachers and students to utilise the toll-free lines to report any cases of abuse or rights violations.