By Sarah Ezeh
The 10-year old boy abused by his guardian in Anambra State, Chiziterem, has recovered after his treatment with wife of the Anambra State governor, Dr. Nonye Soludo renewing call for the protection of children.
Dr. Soludo, who is also the founder of the Healthy Living Initiative, expressed gratitude over the successful recovery and discharge of Chiziterem, whose alleged abuse sparked nationwide outrage.
She described his healing as a powerful reminder of the impact of compassion, timely intervention and collective support.
Reacting to the boy’s discharge from the hospital, Dr. Soludo said she was deeply thankful to see him regain his health after weeks of treatment.
“My heart is filled with immense gratitude as Chiziterem leaves the hospital today fully healed. His journey reminds us that kindness, compassion and collective love can restore hope even in the most difficult situations,” she said.
She commended the many individuals, organisations and well-wishers who stood by the young boy throughout his recovery by visiting him, offering prayers, sending gifts and encouraging his family.
“I sincerely thank everyone who was touched by his story; those who visited him, prayed for him, sent gifts, offered words of encouragement and stood with his family throughout this period. Your generosity and empathy truly made a real difference,” she added.
Reaffirming her commitment to the child’s welfare, Dr. Soludo disclosed that she had fulfilled her promise to cover all of Chiziterem’s medical expenses. She also announced plans to support his mother with resources to establish a sustainable source of income, aimed at improving the family’s long-term wellbeing.
“As promised, I have taken care of all his medical bills, and we will also support his mother with the means to start a sustainable livelihood so she can provide a better future for her children.
“May Chiziterem’s recovery keep reminding us that every act of kindness has the power to change a life forever. God bless you all,” she said.
Chiziterem’s ordeal attracted widespread attention in June after a viral video showed the 10-year-old Enugu State indigene with severe burns and other injuries allegedly inflicted by his guardians in Obosi, Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State.
The disturbing incident drew condemnation from across the country and renewed calls for stricter enforcement of child protection laws and stronger safeguards for vulnerable children.
In response to the incident, Dr. Soludo personally visited the boy, facilitated his admission to a specialist medical facility and pledged to oversee his treatment while extending support to his family.
Medical personnel involved in his care confirmed that, alongside treatment for his burns and other physical injuries, Chiziterem received psychological therapy to help him recover from the trauma resulting from the alleged abuse.
Meanwhile, the Anambra State Police Command has arraigned the child’s former guardians, Mr. Chukwudi Chukwuyere, 40, and Mrs. Chisom Chukwuyere, 30, over the alleged abuse. The suspects have been remanded in a correctional facility pending the determination of their case in court.
Dr. Soludo said the boy’s recovery demonstrates the importance of swift intervention, quality healthcare and psychosocial support for victims of abuse.
She also urged government agencies, communities and families to strengthen collaboration in protecting children from abuse and neglect, stressing that every child deserves to grow up in a safe, nurturing and supportive environment.
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