'Impregnate Any Woman Outside Wedlock and Face the Law" Lagos Warns, Sets to Invoke Section 277 of Lagos Criminal Law

By: Israel Adeleke

OPEN TELEVISION NAIJA (OTN) News reports that the Lagos State Government has reaffirmed the enforcement of Section 277 of its Criminal Law, a provision that mandates any man who impregnates a woman outside marriage to take full responsibility for her welfare throughout the pregnancy period.

OTN News further reports that under the law, such men are legally obliged to provide food, shelter, and medical care for the woman until she gives birth. Failure to comply attracts a fine of up to ₦45,000 and full reimbursement of all maternity-related expenses.

According to officials, refusal to obey a court order issued under this section could lead to further legal sanctions. The provision, though rarely discussed, has been activated to address the growing cases of men abandoning pregnant women and leaving them in economic and emotional distress.

A letter from the office of the spokesperson for the Lagos State Ministry of Justice explained that the renewed enforcement aims to promote accountability and safeguard the rights of vulnerable women. 

“This law ensures that no woman is left to suffer alone after being impregnated. Responsibility must be shared, regardless of marital status,” the official said.

The state government emphasized that the law applies strictly within Lagos and urged affected women to take advantage of the legal channels available for redress.

Women who have been abandoned while pregnant can report their cases to the Lagos State Ministry of Justice via email at info@lagosstatemoj.org; or call +234 902 780 8297 during working hours.

Alternatively, they may contact the Office of the Public Defender (OPD) through 0708 060 1080 or visit opd.lagosstate.gov.ng for free legal assistance.

Officials reiterated that the policy reflects Lagos State’s broader commitment to social justice and gender protection, ensuring that men who shirk their responsibilities face the full weight of the law.