A human rights activist, Aghogho Ighorhiohwunu has petitioned the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Emomotimi Guwor over the proposed amendments of the Delta State Child Rights Law 2008.
The petition was submitted on September 24, DAILY POST can report.
In the petition, Comrade Aghogho argued that the law, which domesticates the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, cannot be unilaterally amended due to international and constitutional obligations.
According to the petition, Section 12 of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution requires international treaties to be enacted into law by the National Assembly, and any amendments must follow the same process. This means the Delta State House of Assembly cannot independently amend the law without federal approval.
He said, “The petition outlines the proper amendment process, which involves ratification by the Federal Executive Council, approval by the National Assembly, and signature by the President.
“The instrument must also be deposited with the relevant international organization or depositary.
“Additionally, as the Delta State Child Rights Law 2008 is a domesticated UN treaty, the state must seek approval from the National Assembly, ensure amendments align with Nigeria’s international obligations, and follow proper procedures for amending a domesticated treaty.”
In the petition, Aghogho urged the Delta State House of Assembly to prioritize the protection and well-being of children in the state and adhere to constitutional and international frameworks.
This development comes as the Delta State House of Assembly recently passed a bill to amend the Child Rights Law 2008 for a second reading.
The bill aims to strengthen existing provisions and introduce new ones to ensure effective implementation and compliance.
The proposed amendments cover twelve sections of the principal law and have received support from lawmakers, who argue that the changes are necessary to address current challenges hindering implementation.
You cannot amend Child Rights Law- Activist, Aghogho challenges Delta Speaker
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