A Lagos-based law firm known as Olives and Candles has committed to providing pro bono legal support to deserted single parents and widows. The firm made the commitment during an intellectual interaction in Lagos. The Lead Partner – Mr. Gbolahan Oluyemi used the opportunity to encourage people who are above 40 years of age to embrace estate planning for the protection of their loved ones. He posited that with the economic challenges facing the nation, it has become increasingly difficult for single parents, widows, and widowers to take good care of their children. Mr Oluyemi further urged parents to note that under the Child Rights Act/Law, the child's best interest should be the parents' primary consideration. He emphasized that children have the right to maintenance by their parents or guardians in line with the capacity of the parent, and this right subsists notwithstanding the relationship between the parents.
While attending to questions on the legal role of parents on their children, Gbolahan Oluyemi mentioned that every parent or guardian has the legal duty to provide the necessary welfare, guidance, discipline, and education for the child in his/her care. He stated that parents who default in their maintenance obligations can be directed by the Court to provide the maintenance under Section 46 of the Child Rights Law of Lagos State.
The firm also made listeners realize that aside from the civil liabilities for not caring for children, there are also criminal liabilities for parents and guardians. The Criminal Law of Lagos State makes it an offence for any parent or guardian of a child under the age of twelve (12) years to desert such child without means of support. It is also an offence for any person to impregnate a lady and refuse to contribute to the medical, food, and necessary costs from ante-natal to post-natal stages.
Upon enquiry on how to access the pro bono services, the firm urged affected persons to send their request to help@olivesandcandles.com.ng or contactus@olivesandcandles.com. Whatsapp 09157453791