Lawmaker, Female Students Protest, Advocate Life Jail for Rapists

A member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Wumi Ogunlola, has called for judicial reform that would guarantee life jail for rapists.

Also, the National Association of Nigerian Female Students (NANFS) yesterday protested against rape and sexual violence and harassment frequently meted out to female minors in the society.

Ogunlola who represents Ekiti Central Federal Constituency II condemned the incessant cases of rape and brutality against the girl-child, called on relevant authorities to apply the full weight of the law on perpetrators of rape and other gender-based violence.

The federal lawmaker, in a chat with newsmen in Ado-Ekiti yesterday, said the upsurge in the incidences of rape in the country all pointed to the need for a proactive approach and stringent measures that would serve as deterrent to the culprits..

Ogunlola further cautioned against stigmatisation of victims, adding that the negative physical, psychological and emotional effects of rape on girl-child might impact them for the rest of their lives with attendant consequences on their self-esteem.

She noted that cases of sexualrelated offences should be tackled with seriousness and high sense of commitment, adding that unless timely action is taken against the heinous act, rape cases will continue to soar.

“It’s saddening that the menace of rape is fast gaining traction in the country where there is government. These are very ominous times for our young girls because they now live in trepidation over the fear of being raped.