Oyo Deputy Governor Advocates for Child Protection Laws

Barrister Bayo Lawal, the Oyo State Deputy Governor, urged for the enactment and effective implementation of laws to protect the rights and welfare of children in conflict with the law during the 305th Inaugural Lecture at the University of Ilorin. The lecture, titled “Children in the Cage, Justice on Trial,” was delivered by Professor Mariam Abdulraheem-Mustapha from the Department of Public Law.

Lawal stressed that children who commit offenses, especially out of ignorance, should not be treated like adults and called for a justice system prioritizing their welfare, rehabilitation, and reintegration. He praised Abdulraheem-Mustapha's presentation and encouraged her to enhance her foundation for vulnerable children.

Abdulraheem-Mustapha advocated for a child-centered justice approach, uniformity in the Child Rights Act across Nigeria, and the establishment of trained Child Police Units. She also recommended improved education and psychosocial support in custodial centers, a national child justice database, and gender-responsive rehabilitation programs for young female offenders.