By Ephraim Emmanuel
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Degema Branch, has warned residents of Rivers State against keeping children below the age of 18 as domestic helps, describing the practice as a criminal offence under the Rivers State Child Rights Law, as amended.
Chairperson of FIDA Nigeria, Degema Branch, Ibiwari Bereiweriso Harry, said the law prohibits individuals from engaging children under 18 as domestic helps and provides penalties for those found guilty.
According to Harry, offenders could face a fine of N50,000, imprisonment, or both, depending on the circumstances of the offence.
She made the disclosure while reacting to cases involving women who keep children as domestic helps, noting that ignorance of the provisions of the law could be contributing to the practice.
Harry, however, warned that lack of awareness would not shield anyone found violating the law from facing the prescribed consequences.
She advised residents who require assistance with childcare to engage domestic workers who are above 18 years of age or use registered creche facilities.
The FIDA chairperson urged members of the public to familiarise themselves with the provisions of the Rivers State Child Rights Law to ensure that children are protected from practices that violate their rights.
