There are several customs in Nigeria that conflict with the Nigerian Constitution, some include:
1. Female Genital Mutilation (FGM): A traditional practice in some Nigerian cultures, FGM is illegal under the Nigerian Constitution (Section 34) and the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act 2015.
2. Child Marriage: Some Nigerian cultures permit child marriage, but the Constitution (Section 29[4]) and the Child Rights Act 2003 prohibit marriage under the age of 18.
3. Forced Marriage: Forcing someone to marry against their will is a common custom in some Nigerian cultures, but it violates the Constitution (Section 34) and the Forced Marriage (Prohibition) Act 2017.
4. Inheritance Practices: In some Nigerian cultures, women are denied inheritance rights, which conflicts with the Constitution (Section 42) and the Administration of Estates Law.
5. Widowhood Practices: Some Nigerian cultures subject widows to inhumane treatment, such as forced marriage or property seizure, which violates the Constitution (Section 34) and the Widowhood Practices (Prohibition) Law.
6. Discriminatory Dress Codes: Some Nigerian cultures enforce strict dress codes for women, which may conflict with the Constitution (Section 38) and the right to freedom of expression.
7. Traditional Rulers’ Immunity: In some Nigerian cultures, traditional rulers are considered above the law, which conflicts with the Constitution (Section 6) and the principle of equality before the law.
These are just a few. Under Nigerian law, this practice is considered a violation of human rights and is not supported.
The Nigerian Constitution guarantees the rights of all citizens, to freedom of movement, dignity, and equality before the law.
So if you have ever been a victim of any barbaric custom, you can seek redress, by
1. Reporting the matter to the police or relevant authorities.
2. Seek assistance from human rights organizations or NGOs focused on women’s rights.
3. Institute a Fundamental Human Rights case in Court, to challenge the practice.
4. Reach out to the NATIONAL AGENCY FOR THE PROHIBITION OF TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS (NAPTIP) or National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) for support.
Changing harmful traditional practices takes time, education, and community engagement.
Encouraging open discussions and raising awareness about the negative impacts of such practices can help bring about positive change.
