By Richards Nzemeke
Port Harcourt – A Port Harcourt-based lawyer, Mr Patrice Ukposi, has underscored the importance of good parenting in ensuring responsible and productive future generation
in view of the pervasive moral decadence among youths and children.
Ukposi, former Chairman of Human Rights Committee of Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Port Harcourt branch, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Port Harcourt on Thursday that many parents and guardians had abandoned their responsibilities toward nurturing good children.
The lawyer said child upbringing was the responsibility of parents, stressing that there must be
consistent commitment and dedication in that regard.
He attributed moral decadence among youths to apparent failure on the part of some parents.
According to him, parents should pay special attention to the company their wards keep both in school and their immediate environments, adding that influence of peer groups cause many youths to join cult groups and vices.
He pointed out the role of governments and religious bodies in promoting good behaviour among the citizenry, saying as critical stakeholders, they should not shy away from it.
He contended that many youths find crime and criminal behaviours as easy ways out because of limited employment opportunities.
Ukposi expressed regret that the get-rich-quick syndrome had gotten the better of many youths as
they permeated the society to the extent that they were not interested in decent lives.
The former committee chairman recalled that he practised law for 25 years and the first 10 years were
never rosy for him, saying the situation was different today owing to his perseverance and hard work.
He noted that some politicians recruit youths and give them hard drugs during electioneering period to intimidate opponents, saying the same politicians kept away their children from such dirty jobs.
He advised youths to work hard and make their money through legitimate means, given the economic opportunities available in the country.(NAN)