Edo State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Chief Bisi Idaomi Esq., has explained that the ongoing review of the State’s Child Rights Law is necessary to address new and emerging issues confronting children in today’s society.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ engagement meeting organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice, Chief Idaomi noted that the existing law, domesticated in 2007, had served well for nearly two decades but had now become outdated and inadequate for tackling modern challenges.
“However, after 18 years of implementation, the Law became outdated and inadequate in addressing emerging and contemporary challenges affecting children in today’s society. This necessitated an urgent review and amendment to align the Law with present day realities,” she said.
She emphasized that the review reflects the Edo State Government’s strong commitment to safeguarding children through a responsive and comprehensive legal framework.
According to her, “The evolving nature of societal challenges and the growing complexity of issues affecting children necessitated a more responsive and adaptive legal framework to ensure the Law’s continued effectiveness.”
Chief Idaomi appreciated the original Child Rights Law for providing a solid legal foundation for the protection and welfare of children in the State since its adoption 18 years ago.
She stated, “The Child Rights Law which was domesticated in year 2007, has served as a foundational legal framework for the protection and welfare of children in the State.”
However, she stressed that new realities such as digital exposure, abuse trends, and changing family dynamics demand a law that can adapt to contemporary issues facing children.
Also speaking at the engagement, the Edo State Attorney General, Hon. Samson Osagie, represented by Chief Magistrate A. I. Adamaigbo, provided invaluable guidance throughout the review process.
The overview of the Child Rights Law sparked valuable observations and insightful contributions from stakeholders, which will help strengthen the proposed amendments.
These inputs, Chief Magistrate Adamaigbo said, “will enhance the practicability and effectiveness of the Law in line with current legal standards.”
Once passed, the amended Child Rights Law is expected to significantly enhance institutional frameworks for promoting the rights, protection, and development of children in Edo State.
