Lagos Government Warns Skit Makers, Content Creators Against Using Children in Harmful or Sexual Scenes
The Lagos State Government has issued a strong warning to skit makers, filmmakers, and digital content creators over the growing trend of involving children in inappropriate, harmful, or sexually suggestive scenes for online content.
The caution comes amid rising concerns that the rush for views, engagement, and monetization on social media platforms is pushing some creators to cross ethical and legal boundaries, especially when minors are involved.
Authorities stressed that children must never be used as tools for entertainment in ways that expose them to emotional harm, exploitation, or indecent representation.
According to state officials, the protection of children’s rights remains a top priority, and any content that violates child protection laws will attract serious legal consequences for those responsible.
The government expressed worry that some online comedy skits and short videos now feature minors in roles and conversations that are clearly unsuitable for their age. In several cases, children are seen acting out adult-themed scripts, participating in suggestive dialogue, or appearing in scenes that could damage their mental and emotional well-being.
Officials described this trend as dangerous, irresponsible, and unlawful.
They emphasized that content creation must never come at the expense of a child’s dignity, safety, and future.
The warning also highlighted that the Child Rights Law of Lagos State clearly prohibits the exposure of minors to any form of abuse, exploitation, indecent treatment, or harmful media representation. Content creators were reminded that ignorance of the law will not be accepted as an excuse.
The state noted that digital platforms have made it easier for videos to go viral within minutes, meaning that any harmful content involving a child can spread widely before authorities are alerted. This makes the damage even more severe and long-lasting.
Government representatives explained that children who are exposed to such roles may grow up facing psychological effects, public embarrassment, and stigma, especially when those videos resurface years later.
They also pointed out that some parents and guardians unknowingly allow their children to participate in these videos without fully understanding the long-term consequences.
As part of the warning, the Lagos State Government called on parents to be more vigilant and cautious about the type of content their children are involved in. Parents were advised to monitor requests from content creators and ensure that their children are not exposed to harmful scripts or environments in the name of entertainment.
The authorities further stated that any parent or guardian who knowingly permits a child to be used in such harmful content could also be held accountable under the law.
The message was also directed at social media influencers, comedians, and filmmakers who often collaborate with children for comic effect. While creativity and storytelling are encouraged, officials insisted that boundaries must be respected.
They made it clear that comedy, drama, or entertainment should never cross into child exploitation. The government warned that enforcement teams are monitoring online platforms, and any content found to violate child protection standards will be investigated. Offenders risk prosecution, fines, and other legal penalties if found guilty.
Officials explained that the goal is not to discourage content creation but to ensure that ethical standards are upheld, especially when children are involved. They encouraged creators to develop family-friendly content that promotes positive values without exposing minors to harmful themes.
The warning has sparked conversations across the entertainment and social media space, with many Nigerians expressing support for stricter regulations to protect children from exploitation in digital content.
Some stakeholders in the creative industry have also acknowledged the need for clear guidelines to help content creators understand what is acceptable and what is not when working with minors.
Child rights advocates have praised the Lagos State Government for taking a firm stand, noting that the digital age has created new forms of child exposure that were not as common in the past. They emphasized that children cannot fully understand the implications of acting in certain roles, making it the responsibility of adults to protect them from situations that could harm their future.
Experts also warned that early exposure to inappropriate themes can affect a child’s perception of morality, relationships, and self-worth. They urged content creators to think beyond views and profits and consider the long-term impact of their productions.
The government reiterated that children should only be featured in content that is safe, respectful, and age-appropriate. Educational, inspirational, and culturally enriching content involving minors was encouraged, provided it aligns with child protection standards.
Officials added that collaboration between government agencies, parents, schools, and content creators is necessary to ensure a safer digital environment for children.
They stressed that social media fame should never override the responsibility to protect vulnerable members of society.
The warning serves as a reminder that while digital content creation continues to grow rapidly in Nigeria, ethical responsibility must grow alongside it.
Lagos State made it clear that it will not tolerate any act that puts children at risk under the guise of entertainment. Content creators were advised to review their scripts, concepts, and productions carefully and ensure they comply with child protection laws before publishing any material involving minors.
The government concluded by reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding the rights and well-being of children across the state, both offline and online. As the digital entertainment industry expands, this directive stands as a clear message that creativity must never come at the cost of a child’s safety, dignity, or future.
