Senator Ireti Kingibe, representing the Federal Capital Territory, has announced plans to sponsor a bill in the Senate to outlaw infanticide across Nigeria.
The lawmaker made the commitment over the weekend during a visit to Vines Heritage Home (VHH) in Abuja, a shelter caring for children rescued from infanticide in communities within and around the FCT. Many of the children at the home had been condemned to death simply for being born as twins, a practice rooted in harmful traditional beliefs.
Speaking after engaging with the children and the proprietor of the home, Olusola Stevens, Senator Kingibe described the practice as “absurd” and unacceptable. “It is unthinkable that children are blamed for the misfortunes of their parents or targeted for death simply for being born as twins — a double blessing,” she stated. “I am committed to presenting a bill that will put an end to this barbaric act. I urge members of the public to speak out against infanticide and support the efforts of homes like Vines Heritage.”
Earlier, Mr. Andrew Mamedu, Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria — represented by Deputy Country Director Hajia Suwaiba Dankabo — welcomed Senator Kingibe to the home. He explained that through a three-year project co-funded by the European Union and ActionAid Nigeria, children rescued from infanticide-prone communities have found refuge at VHH.
“The project has established mechanisms to safeguard unborn babies and infants at risk of infanticide and has amplified the voices of children, particularly girls, ensuring their active participation in decisions that affect their lives,” Mamedu said.
He added that the programme, implemented across 57 communities in five FCT Area Councils, focuses on eradicating harmful traditional practices. Mamedu also acknowledged Sony Entertainment’s financial support through ActionAid Sweden, which has contributed significantly to improving the lives of 74 girls at Vines Heritage Home and 219 other children under their care.
