The proposal by Human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju that DNA tests should be compulsory before birth certificates are issued in Nigeria has ignited intense debate online.
In a post on his X handle, Adeyanju wrote: “DNA should be mandatory before birth certificates are issued in Nigeria. The National Assembly should look into legislation to this effect.”
His comment drew mixed reactions, with many Nigerians expressing concerns over feasibility, cost, and social implications of such a proposal.
Some users expressed support, saying compulsory DNA could curb paternity fraud and marital disputes. A user, @leukocyteng1, noted: “This will curb a lot of things especially issues of divorce after DNA. The problem that follows this call is the cost of running a DNA test… if the government makes DNA test free, this would be very easily achievable.”
Another user, @AyankolaTaiwo3, wrote: “I support what lawyer Deji said,” while @iAlubarikaLAGOS added: “I support Deji for this one.”
But not everyone agreed. Critics argued that the proposal would create unnecessary tension in marriages and place a financial burden on families. @PresidentG46123 said: “It should be optional. If you don’t trust your partner, you can go ahead and do it. If not, obtain the birth certificate for your children and enjoy your life with your family.”
Others questioned affordability. @Oladele275768 asked, “The question is how many can afford DNA test fee in Nigeria now?” Similarly, @prisie1882 argued: “You know how much for a DNA test? So a child that the parents can’t afford it should not have a birth certificate?”
Some also raised concerns over social consequences. @benjamins_st remarked, “70% of marriages will come to an end after this,” while @AhmedY41808 warned: “It’ll cause problems between couples due to trust issues.”
A few comments were lighthearted. @josglobal joked, “Wahala go dey… imagine who has ordered drinks for his friends in the name of my wife has given birth only to reach hospital and find out that the baby he’s celebrating is another man’s child.”
There were also calls for government’s intervention. @Urbaan_RE suggested: “President Tinubu should subsidize DNA test. Make kasala burst.”
Another user, @GeneralKim_J, however, dismissed such expectations, saying: “For where? Dem no care… na their pocket dem think about, not the citizens.”
While Adeyanju’s proposal has divided opinions, the conversation has reignited broader questions around trust, marriage, affordability of DNA testing, and the role of government in regulating family matters.