The surge in rape cases in Nigeria has become a source of concern to human rights activists and law makers in Imo State.
The groups trace the trend to COVID-19 pandemic and the attendant lockdown.
To stem the trend, the lawmakers are calling on the state government to come up with stiff penalties against the offenders.
On its part, The International Federation of Women Lawyers, FIDA called on the state to domesticate the VAPP bill in Imo to give adequate protection to women with capital punishment for offenders.
Also Read: Women journalists lead protest against rape in Cross River State
As a step forward, the Imo State House of Assembly recently moved a motion to address the issue of rape and urged the state government to partner with the judiciary, security agencies, and the traditional institutions.
Editor :Tunde Orebiyi
