Donnish Journal of Law and Conflict Resolution

November 2016 Vol. 2(1), pp. 001-009

Copyright © 2016 Donnish Journals

Original Research Article

Examining the Incidences of Sexual Defilement of Children in Nigeria

Akpoghome, Theresa U^a* and Nwano, Theophilus C^b

^aReader, Faculty of Law, Benson Idahosa University, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria.
^bLecturer, Faculty of Law, Benson Idahosa University, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria.

Corresponding Author's Email: teremajor@gmail.com

Accepted 25th October, 2016.

Abstract

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This paper discusses sexual defilement of children in Nigeria. Children all over the world are the future of every nation and to this extent, they need to be protected from vices that are capable of ruining their lives and future. Sexual defilement of children in Nigeria has been on the increase recently and this calls for the attention of well-meaning citizens and the government to arise and protect this vulnerable group. The paper looks at the definitions of sexual defilement and who a child is. The paper shows that a child is any person that is below the age of eighteen years and sexual defilement will occur where an adult or another child has sexual intercourse with a child with or without the child’s consent. The paper notes that girls and boys are defiled although the cases involving boys are under reported. The paper discovers that there are several circumstances that would expose a child to defilement. It notes that perpetrators of this heinous act are most times acquaintances. The paper also notes that the Courts have not been imposing sentences that will deter perpetrators, although the Supreme Court of Nigeria has severally condemned these sentences. The paper, therefore, recommends that the courts should live up to their responsibilities and further calls on all to arise and fight this scourge that is threatening the future of our children and nation.

Keywords: Sexual, Defilement, Children, Nigeria, Paedophiles.

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Cite This Article:

Akpoghome, Theresa U and Nwano, Theophilus C. Examining the Incidences of Sexual Defilement of Children in Nigeria. Donnish Journal of Law and Conflict Resolution 2(1) 2016 pp. 001-009.