The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) has expressed deep concern over the withdrawal of criminal charges in a case involving the alleged defilement of a four-year-old child in Plateau State, describing the development as a serious setback to justice and child protection efforts.
In a statement signed by its National Chairperson, Aishatu Ibrahim, the association said it received reports of the case’s discontinuance with “profound shock and concern,” noting that the matter raises significant legal, moral, and public interest issues.
NAWOJ acknowledged that the Attorney-General of Plateau State possesses constitutional powers under Section 211 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, to institute, undertake, and discontinue criminal proceedings.
However, it stressed that such powers must be exercised in line with public interest, the interest of justice, and the prevention of abuse of legal process as stipulated under Section 211(3) of the Constitution.
The association questioned the circumstances surrounding the withdrawal of the case, particularly reports that the defendant allegedly failed to appear before the court on several occasions and that an existing bench warrant had not been enforced.
According to NAWOJ, the alleged victim’s age and vulnerability make the matter one that deserves urgent clarification and independent review.
The group warned that the withdrawal of the case could send a troubling message to survivors of sexual violence and their families at a time when child abuse, rape, and gender-based violence remain major concerns across Nigeria.
It further noted that the actions perceived to weaken accountability in such sensitive cases risk undermining public confidence in the justice system and discouraging victims from seeking legal redress.
NAWOJ reminded authorities that Plateau State has domesticated the Child Rights Law, which places a legal and moral responsibility on government institutions to prioritize the best interests of children in all decisions affecting them.
“The protection of children must never be sacrificed on the altar of convenience, influence, technicalities, or administrative discretion,” the statement said, emphasizing that every child deserves justice, protection, and a system that safeguards their welfare.
The association called on Governor Caleb Mutfwang to order a transparent review of the circumstances that led to the withdrawal of the case and urged the state Attorney-General to provide a detailed public explanation for discontinuing the prosecution.
NAWOJ also appealed to the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice to examine whether constitutional requirements relating to public interest and justice were adequately considered before the case was withdrawn.
In addition, the group urged the National Human Rights Commission, FIDA Nigeria, UNICEF, civil society organizations, child rights advocates, and the Nigerian Bar Association to closely monitor the matter and take steps to ensure that justice is served.
The association commended organizations and individuals who have consistently championed the rights of women and children, particularly FIDA Nigeria and other advocates demanding accountability in cases involving vulnerable persons.
NAWOJ maintained that the true measure of any society lies in how it treats its most vulnerable citizens, insisting that “when justice appears to be denied to a child, society has a duty to speak.”
The association reaffirmed its commitment to justice, accountability, and the protection of every Nigerian child, urging the media and the public to remain vigilant in defending the rights of vulnerable children.
