NAPTIP Calls for Tougher Penalties to Curb Rape Cases
The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has urged the implementation of stricter penalties for rape to deter offenders and combat the rising cases of sexual violence.
Hajiya Binta Bello, Director-General of NAPTIP, made this appeal on Monday during the close-out event of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law implementation in Cross River, hosted by Stand to End Rape Initiative. Represented by Mr. Jacob Oba, Head of Operations at NAPTIP’s Cross River Command, Bello described rape as a severe crime against humanity and called for collective action to address it.
Bello emphasized the importance of prompt reporting, survivor support, legal assistance, and awareness campaigns to reduce stigmatization. She also reaffirmed NAPTIP’s commitment to prosecuting violators of the VAPP Act, including human traffickers.
Dr. Mercy Kwabe, Co-director of Stand to End Rape Initiative, praised Nigeria’s strides in advancing equal rights through the VAPP Act but noted that public awareness, especially in local languages, remains insufficient. Kwabe advocated for amending the law to impose harsher penalties on offenders, rather than repealing it.
Ms. Ann Awa, Chairperson of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Cross River Chapter, echoed the need for the full implementation of the VAPP Act across all states. She suggested refining controversial sections rather than abolishing the law altogether.
The reports gathered that Stand to End Rape Initiative, in collaboration with the National Orientation Agency (NOA), has conducted VAPP Act sensitization programs in communities like Ikot Awatim, encouraging residents to report suspected cases.
