By Juliana Katung
Kaduna (Nigeria) – Following the passage of the child protection bill, the Kaduna State Commissioner, Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hafsat Mohammed Baba has advocated for more awareness and sensitization on the new law
Mrs. Baba who was speaking with AFRICA PRIME NEWS in Kaduna said, with the passage of the law, people especially at the community level need be sensitised on the new law.
“The bill is aimed at protecting the welfare and safety of children across the State, hence the need for awareness campaign,” she stressed.
The commissioner said once it becomes a law, children will have unhindered access and right to education and justice, as well as protection of their rights in cases of rape, and trafficking amongst others.
“The next line of action is for us to create more awareness and sensitise the people, so as to remove misconception that children can take their parents to court,” she noted.
She further explained that, if parents are properly educated and informed about the law, children who have been raped or assaulted will have justice at the long run.
According to her, “we believe that with this bill, both the judiciary and court will have a document to work on and justice will be done to our children and all that are concerned”.
She emphasised that the law will protect every child, irrespective of their social status in the society, saying, “like any one of us children have the right to life, education and right to protection and conducive environment”.
She also expressed appreciation to Governor Nasiru El-Rufa’i, the civil societies, the media and members of the State Assembly for their efforts in establishing the law, adding that, the 18 months struggle has made history for the State.
“This is a giant stripe for Kaduna State taking the lead, i hope other States will emulate, she stressed”.
She added that prior to its passage, a lot consultations were made, saying, inputs from religious, traditional leaders, Civil societies and the public were received after a series of public presentation where people gave their views.
It took Kaduna State House of Assembly 18 months of scrutiny, criticism and debates, over the bill, before its passage on Wednesday.
https://www.africaprimenews.com/2018/02/07/governance/nigeria-kaduna-assembly-passes-child-welfare-protection-bill-to-curb-atrocities/
