The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Rivers State chapter, has called on children in custody at the Port Harcourt Remand Home to take full responsibility for their actions and embrace accountability as a path to personal growth and transformation.
The call was made during a visit by members of FIDA’s Prison Watch Committee to the remand facility as part of activities to mark this year’s Children’s Day celebration. The visit aimed to inspire the children and remind them that their current situation does not define their future.
Speaking during the visit, committee member Barrister Nnenna Igbokwe encouraged the children to adopt as a daily habit and a foundation for becoming responsible adults.
“Accountability is a healthy habit. It means owning your decisions, your words, and your behavior every single day. Being accountable is being responsible not just when someone is watching, but especially when no one is. It’s about taking full ownership of your life and choices.”
Igbokwe also advised the children to take care of themselves physically and emotionally while in custody. “Eat well, look after yourself, and above all, love yourself. Loving yourself means making better choices, valuing your future, and refusing to be defined by your past mistakes,” she added.
Another member of the delegation encouraged the children to avoid negative influences and peer pressure, stressing the importance of self-control and boundary setting.
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“If someone invites you to engage in activities you know are wrong, like clubbing or substance abuse, be bold enough to say no. Learning to say ‘no’ is not a weakness but a strength. It is a powerful life skill that will protect you and shape your future.”
She further emphasized that blaming others for one’s actions will only hinder growth. “Many of you are here because of choices you made. It’s not enough to say someone pushed you into it. Real change begins when you admit your mistakes and commit to doing better,” she noted.
The FIDA team reminded the children that the remand home could serve as a turning point in their lives if they choose to embrace responsibility, discipline, and self-respect.
“You have the power to change your story. This place is not the end—it can be the beginning of something new,” the team concluded.
FIDA Rivers’ visit is part of its continued efforts to promote justice, legal awareness, and social support for vulnerable groups, particularly women and children in detention.
