ABSTRACT
In every country, a child has the right to be protected under the law, especially when it involves the investigation of a particular offence. It is the duty of the government to see that necessary actions are taken to implement juvenile laws for the purpose of protecting and rehabilitating juveniles if need be. This work shows that there exists a juvenile justice system in Nigeria which is regulated by laws. These laws include the Child Rights Act, Children and Young Persons Act, the Criminal Code, Penal Code, Administration of Criminal Justice Act. Also, there are international instruments that deal with juvenile justice which will be examined in this long essay like the Convention on the Rights of Children, African Charter on Rights and Welfare of the Child, United Nation Standard Minimum Rules for the Administration of Juveniles and others.
This work further addresses the importance of a “working” juvenile justice system in Nigeria, which should be in tandem with current international standards as postulated by international instruments.
Fortunately, the Nigerian government has made some laudable efforts in enacting laws that comply with international standard such as the Child Rights Act 2003. The downside to this is ineffective of implementation of the laws and the need for all states in Nigeria to adopt them as part of their laws. Furthermore, the principles of best interest, mental health and non-discrimination are brought to light in this work. It is important to note that the Child Rights Act, ACJA and the CYPA are not without flaws.
This long essay also examines these Acts and will make suggestions as to the course of action and solutions that would improve the juvenile justice system in Nigeria.
