Abuja – A Federal High Court has rejected a legal challenge that sought to legalize prostitution in Nigeria. The case aimed to shield commercial sex workers from arrest and prosecution.
What the Court Said
Justice James Kolawole Omotosho ruled decisively, stating that it remains illegal under the Penal Code Act. He emphasized that individuals engaged in prostitution have no legal right to operate, either under Nigerian law or the Constitution.
The judge clarified that fundamental human rights have limitations. He provided the example of a person suspected of a crime, where suspicion can justify restricting some rights. He highlighted that prostitution clashes with Nigerian cultural values and is widely considered immoral.
Why the Case Failed
The suit was brought forward by the Lawyers Alert Initiative for Protection of Rights of Children, Women and Indigent. This group sought to prevent the FCT minister and the Abuja Environmental Protection Board from arresting sex workers in Abuja. However, the court deemed the application “incompetent” and dismissed the entire case, stating the requested legal protections were not possible. The effort to create legal protections for prostitution ultimately failed.
