By Funmilayo Olagunju

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The acquisition, use and possession of drugs for personal use is not decriminalized in Nigeria. The quantity and purpose of being in possession doesn’t exonerate the possessor as drug addiction is not a defence.

For instance, many people believe that cocaine is good for hair growth and doesn’t mind getting a little just to boost their hair.

When a suspect is a minor, Juvenile justice is applicable. Section 204 of the Child’s Right Act provides for Child Justice system and the sited section reads thus:

“No child shall be subjected to the criminal justice process or to criminal sanctions, but a child alleged to have committed an act which constitute a criminal offence if he were an adult shall be subjected only to the child justice system”

This does not in any sense imply that such minor would go scot free by sole reason of age. Minors who are found to be in conflict with the law are referred to remand homes for rehabilitation.

Section 20(4) NDLEA Act:

Notwithstanding subsections (2) and (3) of this section, the Federal High Court before whom a minor is being convicted, may in appropriate cases, make an order as the circumstances may determine

(a) either as an alternative to conviction or punishment

(b) for treatment, education, aftercare, rehabilitation, social integration of the offender.

The prerogative power of the Court in respect to a juvenile offender doesn’t amount to freedom. Do not be mislead to believe that the Law doesn’t punish under aged children. This is the erroneous presumption that lead many young people into working for Drug pushers.

“My son, if sinful men entice you, do not give in to them”

Proverbs 1:10.