4 months ago
10
A Deputy Commissioner of Police in Borno, Ahmad Bello, has called for stringent laws to stop the withdrawal of rape and other sexual violence cases by relations of victims in court.
He made the call in Maiduguri as part of his contribution to a stakeholders’ consultative meeting on Enhancing Gender-Responsive Security Operations and Community Dialogue, organised by UN Women in collaboration with the Borno Ministry of Women Affairs.
Mr Bello, who represented the Borno Police Command at the meeting, said, “Another major thing that needs to be addressed is the culture of silence and stigmatisation of rape and other sexual violence victims.
”We have seen instances while a sexual violence case is progressing, prosecutors will get court affidavits from victim’s relations saying they want to withdraw the case.
”Such intentions to withdraw have to do with fear of stigmatisation.
”In many instances, the victims want justice but are put in a dilemma by their relations,” he said.
READ ALSO: Female student raped, killed in Edo
Mr Bello called for laws to keep requests for withdrawal of the cases under “keep in view” for some period of time to enable the victim to finally decide on the matter.
Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it.
PREMIUM TIMES delivers fact-based journalism for Nigerians, by Nigerians — and our community of supporters, the readers who donate, make our work possible. Help us bring you and millions of others in-depth, meticulously researched news and information.
It’s essential to acknowledge that news production incurs expenses, and we take pride in never placing our stories behind a prohibitive paywall.
Will you support our newsroom with a modest donation to help maintain our commitment to free, accessible news?
He urged UN Women and other stakeholders to sponsor a bill to address some of the loopholes slowing the fight against sexual and gender-based violence in society.
(NAN)
Support PREMIUM TIMES' journalism of integrity and credibility
At Premium Times, we firmly believe in the importance of high-quality journalism. Recognizing that not everyone can afford costly news subscriptions, we are dedicated to delivering meticulously researched, fact-checked news that remains freely accessible to all.
Whether you turn to Premium Times for daily updates, in-depth investigations into pressing national issues, or entertaining trending stories, we value your readership.
It’s essential to acknowledge that news production incurs expenses, and we take pride in never placing our stories behind a prohibitive paywall.
Would you consider supporting us with a modest contribution on a monthly basis to help maintain our commitment to free, accessible news?
TEXT AD: Call Willie - +2348098788999
English (US) ·