Children below the age of 18 years are remanded in adult prison in Nigeria against the provision of the law!

Despite clear legal provisions prohibiting detention of children in adult prisons in Nigeria, the Nigerian court continues to remand children in prison based on poor and inaccurate data presented by the Police. The abuse and inhumane treatment of children continues in the Nigerian Justice system in blatant disregard for statutory provisions.  Children like Haruna, a 15-year-old boy, arrested in 2022 and remanded in Kirikiri medium prison for stealing, until Headfort Foundation provided legal aid for him and secured his release are victims of this abuse perpetrated by the system. Now, it is Godwin! a 16 year old boy currently remanded at Ikoyi prison, Headfort Foundation met Godwin in prison on its monthly routine visit to the prison,   the underaged Godwin told Headfort Foundation he has no lawyer and his parents cannot afford one, we took on his case, his matter came up on the 26th of February but the court did not sit, his matter has now been adjourned to the 19th of March 2024. Godwin is 16 years old but the police wrote in his record that he is 20 years old and based on this inaccurate data, he was remanded to an adult prison by the court.

 Section 13(3) of the Nigerian Correctional Service Act clearly states that a superintendent shall not admit into prison an underage child, Section 35 of the same act prohibits the incarceration of children in adult prison. and the Child Rights Act prohibits the inhumane treatment of children. This petition calls for the strict enforcement of existing laws, enhanced training for law enforcement officers, and improvements to the juvenile justice system to protect the rights and well-being of children.

Why Does This Matter?

We believe that every child deserves protection, care, and an environment that fosters their growth and development. Here's why protecting children's rights is of utmost importance and why you should support this petition

• Children are inherently vulnerable and need special protection. Placing them in adult prisons exposes them to physical abuse sexual and psychological harm, hindering their overall well-being.
• The primary goal should be the rehabilitation and reintegration of children into society. Adult prisons are not equipped to provide the necessary support for a child's development, often leading to long-lasting negative consequences.
• Nigeria, as a member of the international community, has committed to upholding children's rights. Failing to protect these rights undermines the nation's standing and commitment to human rights.
• Investing in the well-being of children today ensures a brighter future for the nation. By protecting their rights, we contribute to the development of responsible and productive citizens

How Can You Help?

By signing this petition, you contribute to a collective voice demanding change. We call on the Nigerian government to:

Enforce Existing Laws: Strictly implement Sections 13(3) and 35 of the Nigerian Correctional Service Act and the Child Rights Act.

Law Enforcement Training and Accountability: Provide comprehensive training for law enforcement officers to ensure accurate data collection and adherence to legal provisions. Hold accountable those responsible for incorrect data leading to the unjust detention of children.

Enhance Juvenile Justice: Strengthen and invest in the juvenile justice system to provide age-appropriate facilities and procedures for the rehabilitation and reintegration of children who come into conflict with the law. 

Raise Awareness: Support public awareness campaigns to educate citizens, law enforcement agencies, and the judiciary on the legal provisions protecting children.

Sign the Petition and Stand Against the Injustice!

Together, we can make a difference and protect the rights of every child in Nigeria.