MONROVIA, Liberia – Reverend Philip S. Blamo has called on the Liberian Legislature to consider enacting nighttime restrictions for minors, arguing that the proposed measures could help protect children, improve public safety, and reduce their exposure to criminal activities.
Rev. Blamo is advocating for the introduction of anti-loitering by-laws that would restrict individuals under the age of 18 from roaming public streets and other public places during late-night hours without reasonable justification.
He proposed that minors found on the streets of Monrovia and surrounding communities after 12:00 a.m. should be taken into protective custody until their parents or legal guardians arrive to take responsibility for them.
The reverend further called for the enforcement of relevant provisions of the Criminal Procedure Act, proposing restrictions on nighttime movement between 8:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. for individuals found loitering in public places without valid reasons.
According to Rev. Blamo, such measures could serve as a preventive approach to protecting young people from violence, abduction, exploitation, and other security threats associated with unsupervised nighttime activities.
He maintained that children who spend extended hours outside their homes at night are exposed to various dangers, particularly in communities where adequate supervision and security may be limited.
Beyond security concerns, Rev. Blamo believes that introducing nighttime restrictions could encourage students to maintain disciplined lifestyles, develop consistent study habits, and get adequate rest.
He argued that keeping minors away from unnecessary late-night activities could contribute to improved school attendance, better academic concentration, and responsible youth development.
Rev. Blamo, who has expressed interest in contesting for the Montserrado County District #15 Representative seat in the 2029 general elections, is urging lawmakers to consider the proposal as part of broader national discussions on child protection, public safety, and parental responsibility.
His proposal has placed the issue of juvenile nighttime movement on the public agenda, raising questions about the balance between protecting children, enforcing public order, and safeguarding their fundamental rights.
