The punishment for rape, as provided by Section 358 of the Nigerian Criminal Code, is life imprisonment; an attempt to commit rape is punishable by 14 years of imprisonment. Despite these measures, rape still thrives in Nigeria, allowed by loopholes in laws and unwillingness of the victims to seek justice.
One of Edo State hospitals reported that they handle nearly 80 rape cases every six months.
A study conducted by the staff of Ibadan Polytechnic has found that on average, 1.7% of Nigerians (both male and female aggressors) are rapists, with 2.7% having attempted rape.
Another research on sexual practices of 12 to 19-year-old students from schools across Oyo State, both with and without mild/moderate intellectual disabilities, has revealed that 68.3% of sexually experienced intellectually disabled females reported having been raped to the police, compared to only 2.9% of non-disabled females.
Always keep in mind:
1. Relationships
Myth: Sex is a must for married partners. Spouses have a ‘right’ for initiating sex whenever they want to.
Fact: No one has a ‘right’ for sex. Any sex without a consent is rape.
2. Dressing
Myth: The girl should be blamed for provoking the rapist by dressing “indecently”.
Fact: No matter what a girl’s style in clothing, only the aggressor should be held responsible for the assault.
3. Intimacy
Myth: Agreeing for some level of intimacy automatically means agreeing to having intercourse.
Fact: The consent for engaging in some physical activity does not mean the sexual act itself.
4. Drinking
Myth: The person who consumed alcohol and was raped should be regarded as the guilty one.
Fact: The rapist is the one to blame. The victim should not be blamed, regardless of the level of their alcoholic intoxication, or lack thereof.
Remember: There are no excuses for rape. If you experienced sexual abuse, do not hesitate to contact the police!
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