
In a recent interview, Lagos Commissioner of Police, Moshood Jimoh, controversially stated that a mother is the most reliable source for a child's age, rather than a birth certificate. This remark came in the context of discussing the case of 17-year-old Quadri Yusuf, who was arrested earlier this year and later released following public outcry. Jimoh suggested that the authenticity of birth certificates should be scrutinised, implying that they might not always be accurate.
Highlights
- Jimoh's statement challenges the validity of birth certificates in determining age.
- The remark was made while discussing the case of Quadri Yusuf, a teenager whose age was contested.
- The police chief's comments have sparked public debate about the reliability of official documents.
- Jimoh emphasised the importance of parental knowledge over official records in age verification.
- The statement has raised concerns among legal experts and human rights advocates.
Jimoh's comments have ignited a broader conversation about the accuracy and reliability of official documents in Nigeria. While some may view his perspective as a call for deeper scrutiny, others are concerned that it undermines the importance of legal documentation. This debate touches on issues of trust, accountability, and the balance between personal knowledge and official records.
What are your thoughts on the reliability of birth certificates in age verification? Join the conversation and share your opinions.