Why do these men blame women for the consequences of their own actions? Why is it always the woman's fault? A man can engage in passionate love-making with a woman for months, refusing to wear a condom, and when she gets pregnant, suddenly it's her fault. This doesn't make sense.
It's time to hold these men accountable for their actions in Nigeria. This group of irresponsible men causes more distress to innocent Nigerians than even armed robbers do. Ironically, these men seem to live longer than the responsible ones, leaving their victims to carry the burden alone.
Women must prepare for their future long before leaving their husbands' homes. Marriage is not a do-or-die affair, but every child has the right to proper early education and healthcare provided by their parents, not the government. The Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development must address this issue urgently. Laws regarding child benefits must be implemented and strictly enforced in Nigeria.
The idea that family and friends should take responsibility for children they didn't father is criminal. If we adopt the Western way of life, we must also adopt and enforce laws that hold men accountable for the upkeep of their children while they are still alive. Women have the power to make this world a better place if they step up to their responsibilities.
Men can be selfish, wanting everything for themselves. Throughout history, men have structured the world according to their desires. Yet, while it may be a man's world, women rule it – they raise the men. Women are the foundation, bedrock, and cornerstone of society. If women unite and refuse to tolerate this culture of irresponsibility, we could witness real change.
Women should demand accountability from men and refuse to accept excuses or allow men to sidestep their responsibilities. If a man fathers a child, he should be legally compelled to contribute to that child's well-being – no ifs, ands, or buts. This isn't about creating unnecessary conflict but ensuring innocent children receive the care and support they deserve.
It's time to explore introducing a compulsory child benefits system in Nigeria, ensuring fathers contribute a fixed percentage of their income towards their children's upbringing. We cannot continue to allow men to escape responsibility while children suffer. Poverty, lack of education, and poor health outcomes often result from absent fathers who fail to provide. This cycle must be broken.
Legislation must be introduced with severe penalties for men who neglect their children, including wage garnishment, asset seizure, or even jail time in severe cases. Communities should work together to stigmatize men who refuse to care for their offspring. We must create a culture where men take pride in being responsible fathers.
This problem is bigger than individual households – it's a societal issue demanding collective action. Religious leaders, community heads, and educators have a role to play. They must speak out against this neglect and encourage positive role models who prioritize family.
Cultural and traditional values should emphasize the importance of family and responsibility. No tradition worth preserving should condone neglect and abandonment. Let's redefine what it means to be a man in our society – responsibility should be at the core.
If child benefits become compulsory, it will relieve the undue pressure placed on women and restore dignity to families. Women should no longer have to beg or struggle to ensure their children are fed, clothed, and educated. The burden should be equally shared by both parents.
This isn't just about law – it's about fairness, justice, and securing a better future for our children. It's time for women to use their influence to demand change. Laws alone won't fix the issue; it requires a shift in mentality. When women refuse to tolerate neglect and hold men accountable, the entire society benefits.
In conclusion, child benefits should be made compulsory in Nigeria. Fathers should be legally required to support their children, and stringent penalties should be in place for those who shirk this duty. Only then can we build a society where every child, regardless of their parents' circumstances, has the chance to thrive.
Mogaji Wole Arisekola, publisher TheStreetJournal writes from Ibadan.
