A couple, Mr. Uche and Mrs. Peace Mbonu, have been arrested and handed over to the police for allegedly abusing and starving their five underage sons in Osumenyi, Nnewi South Local Government Area of Anambra State.

The couple was accused of refusing to provide necessities for their children, who were reportedly fed only once a day and resorted to eating raw rice and palm kernel out of hunger.

The oldest son, Chigbo Mbonu, 17, revealed that their stepmother's arrival marked the beginning of their hardship, and he had to stop schooling to help his father in his block industry. The children showed signs of severe starvation and require medical attention.

The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Ify Obinabo, condemned the act and assured that the state government will continue to combat child labor, abuse, and maltreatment. The couple will face further investigation and subsequent court charges.