By Erewunmi Peace

The Lagos State Government has issued a strong warning to influencers, content creators, and digital media producers about the involvement of children in online content that violates child protection laws. This caution highlights the government’s commitment to safeguarding minors from harmful and exploitative portrayals in digital media.

The warning was delivered in a joint statement by Mobolaji Ogunlende, the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, and Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency. The officials expressed deep concerns regarding the increasing portrayal of minors in harmful or unethical content.

“Children are a legally protected class under Nigerian law and must not be exposed to material that undermines their dignity, safety, or psychological well-being,” the statement read. It further emphasized that involving minors in content that depicts abuse, sexual themes, or unsafe scenarios is both unethical and illegal.

The statement cited various legal frameworks, including the Lagos State Child’s Rights Law (2015) and the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act (2015), under which creating, distributing, or profiting from content that sexualizes or exploits children constitutes a criminal offense. Notably, violators may face penalties of up to 14 years’ imprisonment for the sexual abuse or exploitation of a child.

The Lagos State Government reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy towards child abuse and indicated plans to collaborate with law enforcement agencies to ensure compliance with the relevant laws. “We will engage all stakeholders and take the necessary steps to address any violations of child protection laws,” the statement concluded.

Content creators are urged to familiarize themselves with applicable laws and ensure the protection of children’s rights in all forms of creative expression.