A Nigerian lawyer, Atanda, has cautioned men about the legal implications of marrying single mothers in Nigeria, particularly regarding the children from previous relationships.
Sharing advice on Facebook, Atanda stressed that a man cannot claim legal parentage over children whose biological father is still alive.
He explained that attempting to assume full responsibility for the children could create legal obligations, including being held liable for their maintenance even in the event of a divorce.
The lawyer also highlighted that the biological father retains visitation and custody rights, and taking the children without his consent could be illegal.
Atanda warned against false registration of such children, noting it could be considered child trafficking under Nigerian law.
He further advised men to confirm the mother’s divorce with official documents before marriage, emphasising that biological parentage—not traditional marriage or bride price—determines legal rights over children.
