Peer-reviewed article
STATE ACTORS AND VIOLENCE AGAINST CHILDREN IN NIGERIA: A CRIMINOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVE
Terfa Mathew Ahingir, Michael Christopher Eraye, Terver Haazande, Likita Dauda ·
Summary
Written by AI, not yet AICS's view · claude-haiku-4-5-20251001This paper examines violence against children perpetrated by state actors in Nigeria, including police and judicial system personnel. The study found that children experience physical, psychological, emotional and sexual violence from these actors. Systemic problems like court delays, weak child protection measures, and resource shortages allow violence to continue. The authors recommend stronger implementation of children's rights laws and public awareness campaigns about child protection.
Key points
- Children in Nigeria are exposed to physical, psychological, emotional and sexual violence by state actors
- Security agencies and the justice system have perpetrated violence against children
- Systemic judicial issues including court delays and inadequate child protection measures contribute to ongoing violence
- Cultural norms and lack of resources worsen the problem
- Effective implementation of children's rights laws and public awareness campaigns are needed
Limitations
This study relies on secondary data and qualitative analysis, so it cannot establish prevalence rates or make causal claims about the effectiveness of proposed solutions. The paper does not evaluate any specific intervention with measurable outcomes.
Abstract
Nigeria's young population is one of its greatest assets, yet the country's children continue to face significant threats to their well-being and safety. Despite the ratification of international treaties and laws to protect children, violence against children remains a pressing issue in Nigeria, with state actors often playing a role in perpetuating and condoning this violence. This paper examines violence against children by state actors in Nigeria. The study objectives were to investigate the forms of violence perpetrated against children by state actors; and how security agencies and the justice system perpetrated violence against children in Nigeria. Routine activity theory was used to explain state actors` activities in Nigeria. This study utilized secondary data. Data was analysed qualitatively. The study found that children are exposed to various kinds of violence, including physical, psychological, emotional and sexual violence. Additionally, systemic issues within the judicial system have resulted in unintended consequences that contribute to the perpetuation of VAC, such as delays in court processes, inadequacies in child protection measures, cultural norms, and a lack of resources. The study recommended effective implementation of children’s rights in Nigeria, particularly for the most vulnerable and marginalized children. Additionally, public awareness campaigns should be launched to educate citizens on children's rights and how to report abuses.