Ijaw Women Rights’ Forum Demands Maximum Punishment For Child Sexual Abuse, Trafficking

By Osaro Michael, Benin

The Ijaw Women Rights’ Protection Forum, IWRPF, has called on the Federal Government, state governments, security agencies and the judiciary to impose the strongest possible punishment on perpetrators of child sexual abuse and trafficking.

In a statement issued Friday, the Forum described the rising cases of abuse and exploitation of children as “horrifying and wicked acts” that demand urgent national action.

“The Ijaw Women Rights’ Protection Forum (IWRPF) strongly condemns the horrifying and wicked acts of sexual abuse, exploitation, and trafficking of innocent children,” the group stated.

IWRPF said child sexual abuse must no longer be treated as “an ordinary crime” and urged authorities to ensure maximum penalties are applied without exception, regardless of the offender’s relationship to the victim.

“We call on the Federal Government of Nigeria, state governments, security agencies, and the judiciary to stop treating child sexual abuse as an ordinary crime. Anyone found guilty of sexually abusing a child—whether a biological father or mother, stepmother, foster mother, stepfather, guardian, relative, or any other person, must face the maximum punishment permitted under Nigerian law,” the statement read.

The group also demanded severe sanctions for those involved in trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation of minors.

“We equally demand the harshest lawful punishment for those who traffic, sell, exploit, or sexually abuse children for money or personal gain.”

According to IWRPF, family ties must not be used to shield offenders from justice.

“There must be no protection for perpetrators because of their relationship with the child. Being a parent, guardian, or relative must never become a shield for criminality. A child should never be afraid of the person who is supposed to protect them.”

The Forum further called for swift investigations and prosecutions, and declared support for capital punishment where it is provided for under Nigerian law.

“We demand swift investigation, prosecution, and severe punishment for perpetrators. Where the law provides for the death penalty for a particular offence, we support its full application after due process and conviction.”

In a passionate closing, IWRPF said it is time for decisive action to protect children and give survivors justice.

“Enough is enough. Protect our children. Punish the perpetrators. Let justice speak for the innocent. We need justice for every child that has been sexual abused or trafficked. Enough is enough! Let every abused child know that their voice matters. Let every survivor know that justice is possible. Let every perpetrator know that there must be consequences.”

The Forum said it will intensify advocacy and community sensitization across Ijaw communities in the Niger Delta to ensure child protection laws are enforced and perpetrators are brought to book.

Child rights advocates have in recent months raised concerns over increasing reports of sexual violence and trafficking involving minors, prompting renewed calls for stricter enforcement of the Child Rights Act and the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act nationwide.