REGULATION OF RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PARENT AND CHILD: AN APPRAISAL OF THE CHILD’S RIGHTS LAW OF LAGOS STATE

Abstract

The parent-child relationship constitutes a fundamental pillar of societal structure and development. Multiple disciplinary perspectives including law, psychology, and sociology contribute to shaping this vital relationship. This paper examines the parent-child relationship within the context of the Child’s Rights Law of Lagos State. Prior to the enactment of the Child Rights Act 2003, the Children and Young Persons Laws of various states governed juvenile justice administration in Nigeria, including Lagos State. Under that framework, the welfare and rights of juvenile offenders were inadequately protected, with significant gaps evident throughout criminal proceedings. The Child’s Rights Act introduced a comprehensive legal framework aimed at strengthening the protection of children’s rights, particularly those of child offenders. In alignment with this objective, the Lagos State Government sought to create a ‘child-safe’ environment in which children are respected, empowered, and actively participate in their own protection. Consequently, the Child’s Rights Act was domesticated as the Child Rights Law of Lagos State in 2007. The study adopts a doctrinal research methodology, relying on analysis of statutes, judicial decisions, policy documents, and academic literature. Primary materials include the Child Rights Act 2003, Child’s Rights Law of Lagos State 2007, and the Lagos State Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy 2016, while secondary materials comprise textbooks, journal articles, reports, and scholarly commentaries. The study finds that the Child’s Rights Law of Lagos State has significantly improved the legal and institutional protection of children. However, challenges remain, including inconsistent enforcement, limited awareness among parents, and insufficient institutional capacity. Despite these gaps, Lagos State demonstrates stronger compliance with child protection standards compared to many other Nigerian states. The paper concludes by recommending that other Nigerian states adopt similar measures to promote the welfare and protection of children.