The Bauchi State High Court has introduced family courts to protect children’s rights in line with the Bauchi State Child Protection Law, 2023.
Chief Magistrate and Judge of Family Court (1), Mrs Amina Garuba, disclosed this in Bauchi on Thursday.
She said one High Court and one Magistrates’ Court had been mandated to handle cases involving children, including adoption, fostering, custody, emergency and criminal cases.
“One High Court and one Magistrates’ Court have been given the mandate to hear all issues relating to children.
“The courts are to protect children, whether they are in conflict with the law or otherwise,” she said.
Garuba said some cases could be referred to Sharia Courts where necessary, while judges would undergo behavioural sciences training to better understand children’s attitudes and behaviour.
She added that the courts would protect children and other clients from public exposure to prevent discrimination and safeguard their future development.
