By Usman Oladimeji
The Chairperson of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Kwara State Branch, Barrister Balogun Funke Esq, has said that a child who is truly deserving to be called “my child” is one who is doing well in all ramifications morally, academically, socially and in character.
Barr. Balogun stated this while speaking as a guest on the popular family sensitization program titled “Omo Mi” aired on SBS 96.9 FM, Ilorin.
According to her, child upbringing should not be left in the hands of parents alone, but the community must also take responsibility. She noted that when the community plays its role in correcting, guiding and mentoring children, it becomes easier to steer them away from social vices such as hard drug abuse and other delinquent behaviours.
She urged all parents to give their children a voice to talk and express their feelings, stating that children who are allowed to speak and are listened to at home are less likely to fall into wrong hands or be influenced negatively outside.
Speaking on women participation in politics, the FIDA Chairperson called for more meaningful engagement of women in politics, stressing that women are more than mere political tools to be used during elections. She said women have the capacity, intellect and numbers to contribute significantly to governance and nation-building if given the opportunity.
Barr. Balogun also charged mothers in particular to prioritize proper home training for their children, describing the home as the first school of every child. She however cautioned that discipline and punishment given to children should be moderate and corrective, not abusive or excessive.
She further advised parents and couples to embrace family counselling as a way of resolving family challenges, improving communication and ensuring a stable environment for children to grow.
In addition, she called on the government to intensify efforts in monitoring and controlling the circulation of hard drugs in the society and to address the menace of street begging, which she said exposes children to danger, exploitation and drug abuse.
She concluded that with collective efforts from parents, mothers, the community and government, Kwara State and Nigeria at large will raise responsible children who will become good ambassadors of their families and the society.
