THE association of Orphans and Vulnerable Children in Nigeria (AONN) Kogi state chapter has called on the resignation of Commission for Women Affairs, Bolanle Anpitan and others over an alleged sex scanda by State Director of Child Welfare, Kogi State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Mr Omoyele Fatoye.
This was contained in a press statement issued by the association on Saturday.
The Kogi State Coordinator, AONN, Abaniwo Nathaniel in a statement said the allegation of sexual misconduct alleged to have been committed by the State Director of Child Welfare, Kogi State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Mr Omoyele Fatoye, against the family member of an abandoned child found at Otokiti village earlier this month is unacceptable.
The statement read thus, “We are particular about the conduct or perceived conduct of all stakeholders, both public officers and Civil Society, in the interventions around children, especially Vulnerable Children.
“The episode surrounding this allegations and the conduct exhibited by both the Ministry officials and the individuals involved has fallen short of acceptable standard.
“The Director as a result of his behaviour, has called to repute the professionalism often associated with the staffs of the Ministry, such actions has no place in the intervention environment for children and Vulnerable persons.
“We condemn this behaviour in its entirety and call on relevant authorities to investigate the actions of the Director, the leadership of the Ministry and everyone involved in this sad episode.
“We call for the immediate suspension of both the Commissioner of Women Affairs and Social Development and the Director of Child Welfare to pave way for an unbiased and transparent investigation.
“AONN has always been against the appointment of a male to the position of Director Child Welfare as we feel this position is best suited for a female due to the sensitivity of issues and vulnerability associated with the activities around the department.
“We feel saddened that the Ministry failure to consult widely before the recent appointments that brought in the present leadership in the department of child welfare.
“We will follow this case to its logical conclusion to ensure that justice is served and appropriate sanctions are meted out to serve as deterrent to others.
“There is no place for exploitation of vulnerable persons, especially women and children in our society. public office holder must be held to the highest accountability especially when working with the most vulnerable of our society.
