Senate bars sex crime offenders from working with children

The Nigerian Senate today, March 1, 2021, passed an amendment to the Child’s Rights Act 2003, barring persons convicted of sexual offenses from working with children.

This followed the presentation of a report by the Chairman of the Committee on Women Affairs, Betty Apiafi on the Child’s Rights Act amendment. The lawmakers said the amendment will further give protection to the Nigerian child from sexual violence and abuse suffered in the hands of caregivers and similar persons responsible for their wellbeing.

The Senate also passed the Older Persons Rights and Privileges Bill which seeks to address the social and economic challenges triggered by aging and the need for government to formulate policies that will incorporate the elderly and cater for their well-being.

The bill provides for a fine of N2 million for organizations and N200,000 for Individuals found discriminating against older persons.