Senate passes bill banning sex offenders from working with children

A bill prohibiting persons convicted of sexual offences from working with children has passed third reading at the senate.

The bill is an amendment child rights act of 2003.

The lawmakers passed the bill after Betty Apiafi, chairman of the committee on woman affairs, presented a report for the consideration of her colleagues.

While speaking on Tuesday, Apiafi, senator representing Rivers west, said those who have been convicted of sexual offences must not be allowed to work with children.

The senator said children stand a risk of being abused if found within close proximity of such convicts.

On his part, Senate President Ahmad Lawan said the amendment is important because it would keep convicted rapists away from children.

“This is a very important amendment,” Lawan said.

“This amendment is meant to cure those kinds of societal ills and keep away those rapists from our children.”

Also, the senate passed the older persons (rights and privileges) bill for third reading. The bill is aimed at addressing the social and economic challenges triggered by ageing.

While presenting a report, Apiafi said there is a need for the government to formulate policies that will include the elderly and cater to their wellbeing.

The bill also provided for a fine of N2 million or N200,000 from organisations or individuals who discriminate against older persons.