Comparative Analysis of Nigerian and California Sexual Offender Registration System

Abstract

The high rate of sexual violence in Nigeria sparked uneasiness and crossness in the country 
prompting the enactment of Violence against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP Act), 2015. 
The VAP Act 2015 stipulates stiff penalties and requires the registration of sexual offenders 
ostensibly to name and shame offenders of these filthy crimes which often leave their 
victims traumatised. This article, impelled by the yearnings to interrogate the very essence 
of sexual offender registration, employed doctrinal research methodology in comparatively 
analysing sexual offender registration system in Nigeria and California. The finding of this 
article reveals the shortcomings and fluidity of the Nigerian sexual offender registration 
system and proffered suggestions for law review including elevating Nigeria sexual 
offender registration system to be a protective measure and entrench public safety in the 
treatment of sex offenders.