A non-governmental organisation, Women of Inestimable Value (WIV) Foundation, has said that sensitising children about their rights will help them to become better citizens.
Mrs Mariam Alo, Member of foundation, made the assertion on Thursday while addressing some students in Lagos.
She spoke on ‘Grow Up, Knowing Your Right’.
She spoke to students of Grimes International College, Suberu Oje, Alagbado, which organised the programme.
Alo said that educating children on their rights would make them to know when the rights were being abused or violated.
“As a child, you have your rights and it is good for you to be aware of these rights and speak out when they are being violated by anyone including your parents.
“As long as you are below 18 years of age, you are still a child.
“You have the right to life, education, food, shelter, expression, government assistance, protection from abuse and violence.
“The essence of this programme is to bring it to your understanding that you all are our future leaders,” she said.
According to Alo, children have the right to freedom from Torture and Cruel, Inhuman and Degrading Treatment (TCIDT).
“Nobody has the audacity to apply pepper in your private parts or any other part of your body.
“You need to know how to apply your rights and demand for them because these rights are backed by law and have legal implications if not accorded you,” she added.
She, however, warned the students against involvement in vices such as drug abuse, gangsterism, rape, cultism and sexual abuse, adding that there were juvenile homes for offenders.
“Anyone under the age of 18, who commits an offence will be tried as a minor and, if found guilty, will be remanded at a juvenile home; so, stay away from vices,” she warned.
Mrs Rachel Oduyemi, Civic teacher at the school, applauded the foundation for the sensitisation.
She said that it would go a long way to guide them, build their confidence and make them responsible.
The students had an opportunity to ask questions including on sex-related matters which were addressed by Mrs Elizabeth Odion and Mrs Blessing Obuseh, members of the foundation.
