The Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, has visited the family of eight-year-old Jalila Abdul Jalil, following a Channel One TV report on the alleged abuse of the Class Two pupil of St Olives Grammar Boarding School in Dodowa.
The visit, the ministry said, was to express the government’s sympathy and to assure the family of the State’s commitment to Jalila’s safety, recovery and long-term wellbeing. Addressing the family, Dr Lartey described the incident as unfortunate and reaffirmed her resolve to ensure the child receives comprehensive medical, psychosocial and welfare support.
She stressed that the ministry would follow the case to its conclusion, declaring that “anybody who harms a child harms the nation”. The minister assured the family that the law would take its full course, regardless of who may be involved.
As part of the visit, Dr Lartey presented support items to the family, including a cash donation of GH¢5,000, food items and household supplies.
Jalila’s family expressed gratitude for the minister’s visit and assistance but appealed for swift justice in the matter.
Dr Lartey also commended Channel One TV and other media organisations for bringing the case to public attention, noting that responsible journalism plays a critical role in protecting vulnerable children and promoting accountability.
She was accompanied by the Member of Parliament for the area, Theresa Lardi Awuni, the Head of the Domestic Violence Secretariat, Malonin Asibi, and other officials.