Advocating for prevention of violence against children in Nigeria

Abstract

Child violence is a pattern of coercive controlling behaviour that negates the right of the child in every sphere. Children are targeted
because they are very vulnerable and can hardly defend themselves. It is therefore necessary to prevent and eliminate violence for
adequate protection of children. This work advocates for prevention of violence amongst children in every sphere. The study adopted
doctrinal and empirical mode of research. The work analysed factors that exacerbate violence amongst children and analysed some legal frameworks that provide for their protection. Hence, the work reveals that violence against children is a global menace that cuts across gender, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, religion, social standing and immigration status. The work reveals that despite numerous legislations at the national and international levels, violence against children still persist due to many factors that impede their rights. The work finds that violence thrives on poverty and lack of awareness on the need to prevent child violence. Consequently, the work notes that violence against the child can be protected. Hence, the work recommends the use of law as a tool of social  engineering in order to establish viable structures that will protect the rights of the child in every sphere. Accordingly, Government should collaborate with nongovernmental organisations for proper elimination of violence. Further, effective monitoring system and accurate data collection should be employed to prevent child violence. Also the Government should domesticate all the international treaties and conventions that safeguard the rights of children. Finally, all the obnoxious customary and religious laws that hamper these rights should be eradicated.

Key Words: Advocacy, Violence, Prevention and Human Rights