The group said:
“If substantiated, these allegations represent grave violations of the Child Rights Act (2003), the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and the Nigerian criminal laws prohibiting sexual abuse and unlawful detention.”
WAN Nigeria strongly condemns any form of abuse, exploitation, or coercion against minors and reiterates that children must be protected under all circumstances, particularly while in state custody.
WAN Nigeria then calls for the immediate and unconditional release of Walida as well as urgent access to independent medical, psychological, and legal support for the minor.
WAN said it also wants a “transparent, independent, and impartial investigation into the allegations, the immediate suspension of the accused officer pending investigation and full protection of the victim and her family from intimidation or retaliation.”
The group said the continued detention of a minor under such serious allegations undermines public trust in state institutions and raises significant human rights concerns nationally and internationally.
“We call on the leadership of the Department of State Services, relevant government authorities, civil society organizations, religious leaders, and the international community to ensure that justice is pursued without delay and that the rights of this child are fully safeguarded”.
WAN Nigeria said it remains committed to protecting vulnerable children and will continue to monitor this matter closely. We are prepared to pursue all lawful national and international advocacy mechanisms should urgent corrective action not be taken.
