The Lagos State Government has warned that men who impregnate women outside marriage and abandon them will face legal consequences, in line with provisions of the state’s criminal law that compel paternal responsibility during pregnancy.
The call was made through renewed public awareness of Section 277 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, which mandates any man who causes a woman to become pregnant to provide for her welfare until she delivers the baby.
According to the law, such responsibility includes providing food, accommodation where necessary, and covering all hospital and medical expenses related to antenatal care and childbirth.
The law further stipulates that failure to meet these obligations constitutes an offence punishable by a fine of up to ₦45,000, in addition to the payment of all maternity-related costs incurred by the woman.
Legal authorities explained that the penalties could become more severe if a court issues an order directing the man to assume responsibility and he refuses to comply, noting that defiance of such an order attracts additional sanctions.
The provision, officials said, was introduced to address the persistent problem of men abandoning women after impregnating them, a situation that has left many expectant mothers financially and emotionally vulnerable.
By enforcing shared responsibility, the Lagos State Government aims to protect women, promote maternal health, and discourage irresponsible behaviour that places pregnancy-related burdens solely on women.
Women affected by pregnancy abandonment were advised to seek redress through the Lagos State Ministry of Justice or the Office of the Public Defender (OPD), both of which provide legal support to victims.
For now, the law applies strictly within Lagos State, but stakeholders say it could serve as a model for other states seeking to strengthen legal protections for women and unborn children.
