A security expert based in Port Harcourt, Emmanuel Eminima, has urged parents to take greater responsibility for the upbringing of their children, warning that neglecting parental duties could expose young people to negative influences and criminal activities.
Eminima made the call against the backdrop of growing concerns over rising cases of kidnapping, cultism, cybercrime, drug abuse and other social vices involving youths across the country.
Speaking with reporters in Port Harcourt, he stressed that while economic realities compel many parents to spend long hours away from home, they must not abdicate their responsibility of providing moral guidance and supervision for their children.
According to him, the values and behaviours children develop are often shaped by the people they interact with regularly, making it important for parents to carefully monitor those entrusted with their care.
He warned that some caregivers, neighbours or domestic staff may unknowingly expose children to harmful habits and influences that could affect their character and future.
“Parents must remain actively involved in the lives of their children despite the demands of earning a living. The responsibility of raising responsible and morally upright children cannot be completely transferred to nannies, relatives or domestic workers,” he said.
The security expert advised parents to thoroughly screen caregivers and maintain close communication with their children in order to identify behavioural changes early and address them before they escalate.
Eminima also called on landlords, estate managers and operators of hospitality facilities to strengthen the screening and profiling of individuals seeking accommodation within their premises.
He noted that criminal elements often exploit weak verification systems to establish hideouts and carry out unlawful activities within communities.
According to him, proper identification procedures, background checks and collaboration with security agencies can help reduce crime and improve public safety.
He further encouraged residents to report suspicious activities and individuals to relevant authorities, stressing that effective crime prevention depends largely on credible information from members of the public.
The security expert cautioned communities against being deceived by criminals who attempt to gain acceptance by offering financial assistance or employment opportunities to local residents.
Speaking on school safety, Eminima urged parents to consider security conditions when choosing educational institutions for their children.
He warned against enrolling children in schools located in isolated or poorly secured areas, noting that such environments could expose students to risks, including abduction and other security threats.
According to him, parents should prioritise both academic standards and security considerations when making decisions about their children’s education.
He also advocated continuous security awareness education at home, encouraging parents to teach children basic safety measures, how to identify potential dangers and appropriate responses during emergencies.
Eminima maintained that children who are adequately informed about personal safety are less vulnerable to criminal exploitation.
He concluded by calling for stronger collaboration among parents, schools, community leaders, landlords and security agencies to address the growing security challenges facing the country.
According to him, protecting children and building safer communities require collective responsibility, vigilance and sustained efforts to instill positive values in the younger generation.
