The Lagos State Government has issued a formal reminder to content creators, influencers, skit makers, and digital media producers regarding the legal and ethical requirements of featuring minors in online media.
The state authorities emphasized that while the digital economy offers vast opportunities for creativity, the production of content must not infringe upon a child’s safety, dignity, or fundamental rights. Officials noted that as digital platforms expand, creators have a heightened responsibility to ensure that their output does not exploit or endanger young participants.
The following are the legal guidelines outlined for the specific laws governing the protection of minors in digital productions:
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Lagos State Child’s Rights Law (2015): Section 25(1) prohibits exploitative child labor, while Section 26 prohibits child abuse.
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Lagos State Criminal Law (2015): Sections 135–139 and 141 address sexual offenses against children.
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Cybercrimes Act (2015): Section 23 prohibits child pornography and related offenses, while Section 24 prohibits cyberstalking and online harassment.
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Child’s Rights Act: Section 32 classifies the sexual abuse or exploitation of children as an offense punishable by up to fourteen years of imprisonment upon conviction.
The Lagos State Government also reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance against child abuse and committed to working with law enforcement to ensure compliance. Members of the public and the creative community are encouraged to adopt a proactive stance on safety, adhering to the state’s reporting mantra: See it, Say it, Sort it.
