The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) has received with profound 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.
In a statement by the National President of NAWOJ, Comrade Aisha Bura said as an organization committed to the protection of women and children, the promotion of justice, and the defense of the rights of vulnerable members of society, NAWOJ views the discontinuance of this case as a matter of grave public interest that raises serious legal, moral, and child protection concerns.
While the Attorney-General of Plateau State possesses constitutional powers under Section 211 of the 1999 Constitution (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 to prevent 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 the wider society. 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.
NAWOJ therefore calls on:-
●The Governor of Plateau State to order a transparent review of the circumstances surrounding the withdrawal of the case.
● The Attorney-General of Plateau State to provide a detailed public explanation on the rationale for discontinuing the prosecution.
●The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice to examine whether the constitutional requirements of public interest and justice were adequately considered.
● The National Human Rights Commission, FIDA Nigeria, UNICEF, civil society organizations, and child rights advocates to closely monitor the matter and take necessary steps to safeguard the rights of the child involved.
● The Nigerian Bar Association to lend its voice in ensuring that justice is not only done but is seen to be done.
●The media and all well-meaning Nigerians to remain vigilant and continue advocating for the protection of vulnerable children.
NAWOJ commends all organizations and individuals who have consistently championed the rights of women and children, particularly FIDA Nigeria and rights advocates who have continued 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.
