Aba North LG Chairman Seeks Community Partnership To Tackle Elder Abuse
The Executive Chairman of Aba North Local Government Area, Hon. Timothy Iheke, on Monday, called for stronger grassroots collaboration in protecting older adults from abuse, as Nigeria joined the rest of the world to mark World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD).
Speaking on the global theme for 2025, “Addressing Abuse of Older Adults in Long-Term Care Facilities: Through Data and Action,” Hon. Iheke shifted focus from mere observance to practical, community-driven reforms.
“He described elder abuse as a growing concern that cannot be effectively addressed by the government alone.
“Our response must extend beyond institutional settings. Families, religious organisations, neighbours, and youth groups must all become active participants in shielding our elderly from harm,” he said.
As part of efforts to institutionalise this collaborative approach, the council boss announced two key interventions including a Comprehensive Elder Care Audit of all long-term care facilities in the LGA, and the creation of an Elder Welfare Monitoring Desk, in partnership with the Abia State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development.
While these initiatives aim to introduce structure and oversight, Hon. Iheke stressed that the most effective protection for the elderly often comes from those closest to them.
He appealed to traditional rulers, ward leaders, and community development associations to champion regular outreach, encourage vigilance against signs of abuse, and help disseminate information on elder rights and support services.
“Our elders should not be hidden or forgotten. They should be celebrated and cared for,” he said, describing older adults as “repositories of wisdom and culture” whose well-being reflects the moral strength of society.
The council chairman also noted that data collection would play a central role in shaping policy and response frameworks, particularly within care homes, where neglect and mistreatment can go unreported.
He concluded with a message of hope, urging that WEAAD serve as a “turning point where data meets dignity, and action meets accountability,” while expressing prayers for elder abuse victims and affirming the council’s ongoing commitment to ensuring senior citizens live with dignity and security.
Aba North LG Chairman Seeks Community Partnership To Tackle Elder Abuse is first published on The Whistler Newspaper
