Lawyer questions minister and DSS over the alleged age of abducted Jigawa girl
The family lawyer of a Jigawa girl, Walida Abdulhadi, is challenging claims made by a minister and the DSS regarding her age in the context of her alleged abduction.
A family lawyer representing Walida Abdulhadi, a 16-year-old girl who was reportedly abducted by a member of the Department of State Services (DSS) in Nigeria, has raised concerns about statements made by the Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman Ibrahim, and the DSS regarding her age and the circumstances of her abduction. The lawyer accuses both officials of misrepresenting Walida's age, with the minister stating publicly that a check by the National Population Commission showed Walida was actually 22 years old at the time of her reported abduction, which would change the legal context regarding her case.
Following significant public concern and pressure from the Jigawa State Government, Walida was released to Governor Namadi after being held for an extended period. This incident has drawn attention not only to the specific case of Walida but also to broader issues regarding the handling of sensitive cases by government agencies, including the DSS. The familyβs legal battles have highlighted the importance of due process and the need for transparency in such disturbing cases, especially involving minors.
Moreover, Walida's case has rekindled discussions surrounding minors' rights and protection against abuse within the Nigerian legal framework. The discrepancy in age reported could have serious ramifications, particularly for how the legal system addresses allegations of abduction and abuse, and whether adequate measures are in place to prevent such occurrences moving forward.