By Owolabi Precious

…. says act a criminal offence

Ekiti State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Olapeju Babafemi, has called on the public to desist from posting pictures and videos of minors in distress on social media and other mass media.

Mrs Babafemi, who made the call in Ado-Ekiti, said that the attitude of some social media users of posting of minors in distress showed insensitivity and raised serious concerns about the negative impact on the psycho-social development of children.

She said the dissemination of distressing contents contravened both the constitutional provision on human dignity and legislation protecting minors’ rights.

She cited Section 34(1)of the Constitution, which states, “Every individual is entitled to respect for the dignity of his person.”

The Commissioner also noted that posting pictures and videos of minors in distress on social media also contravene Section 24 of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2012, which “criminalises the sending or posting of offensive messages on social media platforms, including publishing contents that can harm the reputation of distressed individuals.”

She noted that these provisions applied to situations where a person’s image or distressing moments were posted online without their consent, causing harm to their privacy or dignity.

Babafemi implored individuals to show empathy and support for children in distress to aid their recovery process.

While reaffirming Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s Administration’s commitment to the well-being and development of Ekiti children, she urged stakeholders, including Civil Society Organisations, Faith-Based Organisations and community leaders to intensify efforts geared towards promoting peace, tolerance, mutual understanding and love in families.

Mrs. Babafemi assured that the state government would continue to implement policies and programmes aimed at enhancing the holistic development of Ekiti children.