NAVIGATING THE LEGAL LANDSCAPE FOR REGULATING PATERNITY FRAUD

Abstract

Paternity fraud, the act of falsely identifying a person as the biological father of a child, has emerged as a significant issue in Nigeria, raising legal, ethical, and social concerns. This phenomenon has raised questions about parental rights, inheritance laws, and the overall integrity of family structures. While Nigeria currently lacks a cohesive legal framework dedicated explicitly to paternity fraud, various legal frameworks are applicable in addressing and regulating this issue. The interplay between constitutional rights, child welfare legislation, family law, and judicial precedents provides a foundation for individuals affected by paternity fraud to seek justice. This paper examines the existing legal framework surrounding paternity fraud in Nigeria and its implications for justice and parental rights. It explores relevant statutes that touch on fraudulent paternity misattribution in Nigeria and the various arguments for the criminalization of the act. The analysis reveals that while there are legal mechanisms to address paternity-related disputes, gaps exist in the framework and the enforcement of these laws. Factors such as cultural perceptions of masculinity, societal stigmas, and inadequate legal recourse hinder effective resolutions. The findings underscore the need for comprehensive reforms incorporating modern scientific methods, promoting awareness, and enhancing access to justice for victims of paternity fraud. Nigeria can foster a more equitable legal environment conducive to familial integrity and accountability by bridging legislative gaps and ensuring robust protections.