AN ETHICAL RESPONSE TO BABY DUMPING IN TIV SOCIETY

Patricia Mwuese Saluun 1 & Moses Terwase Tyosenda 2
Department of Religion and Cultural Studies, Benue State University, Makurdi 1 & 2
Corresponding Email: terungwasolomon@gmail.com 2

Abstract
Baby dumping, the act of abandoning infants in unsafe locations, has become a growing ethical and social concern in Tiv society. Factors such as economic hardship, social stigma, and the breakdown of traditional family support structures have contributed to its prevalence. Despite moral and religious teachings condemning the practice, cases continue to rise, necessitating a critical examination of the ethical responses to baby dumping. This study aimed to explore the ethical response to baby dumping in Tiv society. The study adopted a qualitative research design utilizing both primary and secondary data sources. Data were collected through interviews with religious leaders, community elders, and social workers, as well as a review of relevant literature, legal documents, and policy frameworks. The evaluative and analytic methods were used to identify key ethical themes and discuss same towards intervention strategies. Findings revealed that while religious institutions like the Roman Catholic Church and NKST continued to provide moral guidance and support, governmental efforts, including the Child Rights Act, remained weak due to poor enforcement. The erosion of communal childcare structures further exacerbated the issue. The study recommended strengthening family support systems, enhancing reproductive health education, and fostering collaboration between religious institutions, government agencies, and NGOs. The study concluded that addressing baby dumping required a holistic approach integrating ethical awareness, social responsibility, and policy reforms. Strengthening legal frameworks, promoting responsible parenting, and reinforcing communal child-rearing practices were crucial in mitigating the issue and protecting vulnerable children in Tiv society.

Keywords: Ethical Response, Baby Dumping, Tiv Society, Child Rights Acts.