By Jasmine Okogerie
Worried by the minor Defilement, the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) has received with shock and concern reports of the withdrawal of criminal charges in the case involving the alleged defilement of a four-year-old child in Plateau State.
As an organization committed to the protection of women and children, the promotion of justice, and the defence of the rights of vulnerable members of society, NAWOJ views the discontinuance of this case as a matter of grave public interest, raising serious legal, moral, and child protection concerns.
While the Attorney-General of Plateau State possesses constitutional powers under Section 211 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), to institute, undertake, and discontinue criminal proceedings, such powers are not absolute. Section 211(3) expressly provides that these powers must be exercised in the public interest, in the interest of justice, and for the purpose of preventing abuse of legal process.
The circumstances surrounding the withdrawal of this case—particularly reports that the defendant repeatedly failed to appear before the court, that a subsisting bench warrant remained unenforced, and that the allegations involve a highly vulnerable four-year-old child—demand urgent clarification and independent review.
NAWOJ is deeply troubled by the message this development sends to victims of sexual violence, their families, and society at large. At a time when cases of child abuse, rape, and gender-based violence continue to pose serious threats to the safety and wellbeing of children across Nigeria, actions that appear to undermine accountability risk eroding public confidence in the justice system and discouraging victims from seeking legal redress.
We remind all stakeholders that Plateau State has domesticated the Child Rights Law, thereby placing a legal and moral obligation on the government and all relevant institutions to ensure that the best interests of the child remain paramount in every decision affecting children.
The protection of children must never be sacrificed on the altar of convenience, influence, technicalities, or administrative discretion. Every child deserves justice. Every child deserves protection. Every child deserves a system that prioritizes their welfare above all else.
In light of these concerns, NAWOJ calls on:
• The Governor of Plateau State to order a transparent and independent review of the circumstances surrounding the withdrawal of the case.
• The Attorney-General of Plateau State to provide a detailed public explanation of the legal and factual basis for discontinuing the prosecution.
• The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice to examine whether the constitutional requirements of public interest, justice, and protection of vulnerable victims were adequately considered before the decision was taken.
• The National Human Rights Commission, FIDA Nigeria, UNICEF, civil society organisations, and child rights advocates to closely monitor the matter and take all necessary steps to safeguard the rights and welfare of the child involved.
• The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) to lend its voice and professional influence in ensuring that justice is not only done but is manifestly seen to be done.
• The media and all well-meaning Nigerians to remain vigilant and continue advocating for the protection of vulnerable children and the preservation of public confidence in the justice system.
NAWOJ commends all organisations and individuals who have consistently championed the rights of women and children, particularly FIDA Nigeria and other rights advocates who continue to demand accountability in matters affecting vulnerable persons.
The true measure of any society lies in how it treats its most vulnerable citizens. When justice appears to be denied to a child, society has a duty to speak. Silence is not an option.
NAWOJ stands firmly on the side of justice, accountability, and the protection of every Nigerian child. We call for transparency, fairness, and unwavering commitment to the rule of law in this matter and all cases involving children.
This was contained in a statement signed by Aishatu Ibrahim, National Chairperson ,
Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ).
