Child Rights in Nigeria

From right to left: Gbenga Adeyinka (comedian), Dr. Joe Okei-Odumakin - President, Campaign for Democracy, David Eze - Chairman, Chijindu Eze Foundation and one of the speakers at a child rights' rally in Lagos.

The President of the Campaign for Democracy, Dr. Joe Okei-Odumakin has called on all state governments to enact the Child Rights Act in order to effectively ensure the safety and care of children and prevent child abuse in the country.

She stated this at a rally in Lagos organised by the Women Arise Initiative in conjunction with the Chijindu Eze Foundation in memory of the late Chijindu Eze, an eleven year old who got drowned in a swimming pool in May 2009 while on a swimming expedition organised by his school.

Dr. Okei-Odumakin said children are daily abused and neglected in the society due to the culture and practice of impunity, adding that government must set out to curb the act.

                  

The father and Chairman of the Chijindu Eze Foundation, David Eze advice however advised teachers, parents and guardians to be watchful and caring enough to to secure the future and lives of the coming generations.

                  

The rally which kicked-off at the Allen Roundabout in Ikeja, proceeded to the office of the Deputy Governor where a petition was submitted for adoption and enactment of the Child Rights Act by the Lagos state government.

Although the federal government adopted the Child Rights Act in 2003, it is believed that it can only be effectively implemented if enacted by state assemblies.