When it seems the war against rape is being won in Nigeria, it
becomes a big blow to the Govt and Anti-rape activists when such rape survey,
as that of Oyo State, is disclosed.
It is a big shock to say that the incidence of rape has
taken a serious dimension in Ibadan, Oyo state with more than 20 new cases
reported monthly, the News Agency of Nigeria reports.
A survey by NAN correspondent in Ibadan showed that the
menace was fast assuming a dangerous dimension with reported abuse of minors.
Mr James Ajibola, the legal adviser to the Nigeria Union of
Journalist, Oyo
State chapter, one of those interviewed in the survey, said
rape was one of the social vices currently ravaging the society.
He said aside the fact that it had become an aberration,
under-aged girls were now major targets of rapists, leaving their victims with
horrible experiences.
The legal practitioner said the Nigeria constitution defines
rape and spells out penalties for culprits, which range from two to 14 years
jail term, depending on the severity of the crime or court’s discretion.
According to him, the intervention by various people to
settle rape cases out of court has allowed rapists to go unpunished and thus
encouraging more rape cases.
“Over 20 new rape cases are recorded on a monthly basis in
Ibadan alone, with only one out of 100 per cent rape cases receiving diligent
prosecution,” he said.
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