The Maid Who Became An Aide...

Image from National Mirror online

As I went about  my exercise routine early this morning, I came across  a young girl of not more than 12-14 years of age; in an oversize dress looking a bit unkempt and opening the gate of a gigantic building whilst a driver with some well dressed kids in school uniform drove out. As I walked on, just about 3 houses away, I saw a similar scenario; another young girl opening the gate to go empty the garbage. This reminded me of what  I have seen around in churches, supermarkets, everywhere; young girls working as "housemaids" in family settings.


In church, I have seen very small  girls walking behind their "madam" and her 2 kids; carrying two bags and obviously by their dressing, they are the "housemaid". I have seen women curse and beat the hell out of small girls. I have heard of girls being starved because they refused to finish some assigned chores. I have seen Madam's children harass and beat these "housemaids". I have seen children who are unable to do simple domestic chores because Fatima, Joy, Kafayat ; the "housemaid" does all the chores in the house.

Today, I want to talk briefly about the "housemaid syndrome" which is prevalent in this part of the world where I live. This is not a post on the atrocities of house-helps.

The nature of the jobs we do could be very hectic; the typical excuse many people give in getting "housemaids". I know we sometimes need someone to help with our domestic chores. We can't do them alone, I agree. If we however have to employ people to help out, we must ensure we are fair in our dealings with them. Before now, lack of appropriate laws has been a cause of injustice and unfair treatment to these girls in our society. 

Gratefully, The Federal Government has prohibited the employment of children below the age of 12 as domestic helps in a new Act signed by President Goodluck Jonathan titled the "Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act 2015". The highlight of the new law includes a prison term of two years and a possible fine for violators and it also prohibits the exploitation of domestic helps who are under 18 years. Read more about it Here and Here.

Before now, there has been  a high level of trafficking of young girls from villages and neighboring countries by their relatives/ agents who bring them to Lagos so they can work. These agents find a placement for them and get an agency allowance as well as a cut from the girls salary. It is common nowadays to hear women say they are looking for a HOUSEMAID not older than 12-14 years to help with household chores .

It is no news that many of our friends overseas, some with 2 or 3 children raise their families without having domestic helps. Not because there are no helps that can be hired but because everyone has learned to take care of their families. Apart from being expensive,there are laws and in a typical civilized society, unjust treatment to any human being is not acceptable hence the rules that apply to those holding white collar jobs apply to whoever you employ. You cant afford to treat anyone anyhow!

Image from jw.org

If anyone must employ a househelp, (Note that I used the word "help"; because what they do is to help us around the house) then you should be ready to commit to that girl or boy's life.  Many change maids like every other month and they are quick to complain that the girls are behaving funny. Why won't they behave funny? Everyone wants to be treated well, Everyone deserves to be accorded with dignity. Whilst they are helping with your chores, invest in their lives and future. Who knows what they are destined to be? Be a part of their success story.

Please Do not  employ an underage!

A simple suggestion by a maid in the bible brought an end to a lifetime affliction in the life of the renowned General Naaman. This little maid mentioned in 2nd Kings 5: 2 waited on Naaman's wife and despite being a maid, she had a voice. She had a voice because she was given an atmosphere to express herself. She wasn't maltreated or stifled. She had compassion welling inside of her for her boss. She became an aide( adviser) from being a maid. She must have been hugely rewarded!

Let me point out a few things.

• These girls are children of women just like you
• They are in your house because life has not "yet" given them the opportunity of a good education and upbringing. They probably are not able to go to school because their parents are poor, some dead, and some are not just rising up to the responsibilities of parenthood.
• Just like any one else, they deserve to be treated fair.
• It is wisdom to know that what you "invest" in a person is what you enjoy from the person.
• One good turn deserves another. Your generosity towards that girl/lady in the present will go a long way in opening doors for you in the future; even if you don't realize it.

Whoever it is you have living with you may hold the key to something you have been praying to God for.

Above all, do your due diligence before employing anyone to be a "part" of your family.

The Pen......