Children in Ogun State have raised their voices against the rising cases of abuse, neglect, and exploitation, calling on government and stakeholders to take urgent action.

The appeal came during the plenary session of the 5th Children’s Parliament, held at the Ogun State House of Assembly, Oke-Mosan, on Wednesday.

Farida Olushola, representing Ijebu-Ode Constituency and Chair of the House Committee on Women Affairs, opened the debate, stressing that children are the leaders of tomorrow, and a bad foundation can damage their future. She urged for love, care, protection, and emotional support to help them grow into healthy, productive adults.

Presided over by Speaker Rt. Hon. Ezekiel Olaoluwa, the session saw the young parliamentarians commend the state government for its investment in child welfare, education, and protection. However, they expressed deep concern over the increasing cases of physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, as well as child labour, trafficking, and neglect.

The Children’s Parliament resolved that the State Assembly should urge the government and other stakeholders to strengthen laws, enforce policies, and promote multi-agency collaboration to stop child abuse.

Responding, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Oludaisi Elemide, assured the children that their resolutions would be considered and encouraged them to keep speaking up.

The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Adijat Adeleye, also lamented the growing abuse of children, calling for discipline with love instead of corporal punishment. She highlighted that many children are still found working in markets and mining sites instead of being in school.

“This motion is important, and I’m glad the children brought it forward today,” she said.

The day’s session served as a strong reminder that children’s voices matter — and that protecting them is a collective responsibility.