Nasarawa University Professor Raises Concerns Over Rising Rape Cases
Collins Agwam
Zara Kwaghe, a Professor of Social History at the Federal University of Lafia, has voiced serious concerns about the increasing instances of rape, particularly involving minors, in Nasarawa State and nationwide.
In an exclusive interview with FIRST CLASS GISTS on Thursday in Lafia, Professor Kwaghe highlighted the urgent need for all stakeholders to unite against this alarming issue. She stressed that concerted efforts are essential to swiftly address the menace of rape.
During the interview, an emotional Kwaghe lamented that many families of rape victims remain silent due to fear of stigmatization. She urged these families to seek help from authorities and the public to ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice.
“Rape of minors is not new, but it has become disturbingly common. We must all work together to prevent such atrocities,” Kwaghe emphasized. She pointed out that often, trusted individuals close to the victims are the perpetrators, making it crucial for parents to be vigilant in protecting their children.
Kwaghe also called on parents to be proactive in caring for their children and not to entrust them to people they do not know well. She underscored the importance of community vigilance and the necessity of speaking out against suspicious activities.
Addressing gender disparity, Professor Kwaghe urged the government to ensure gender balance in governance. She noted that despite many women being qualified, they are often excluded from decision-making roles. Kwaghe encouraged women to pursue education and skills development to maintain their relevance in society.
She referenced former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s 30% affirmative action for women, criticizing its poor implementation, and cited Rwanda as a successful example of women’s significant contributions to national growth.
Kwaghe argued that women should have equal opportunities in all sectors and stressed the need for women to continually improve themselves to be ready for opportunities when they arise. She also highlighted the importance of women sharing their stories to combat patriarchal practices and promote societal change.
Kwaghe called for government support in passing laws that promote women’s rights to bridge historical gaps.
In a related development, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Nasarawa State Police Command, DSP Ramhan Nansel, described rape as a criminal offense punishable by life imprisonment or 24 years in prison. He reported that between January and May 2024, 20 suspected rapists were arrested, with some cases already in court while others are under investigation.
Nansel attributed the causes of rape to parental neglect and moral decay, urging parents to monitor their children’s activities closely. He called on traditional and religious leaders to educate communities about the consequences of crime, including rape, to prevent such offenses.
He emphasized the importance of victims speaking out to aid police investigations and ensure justice. “Naming and shaming offenders can deter future crimes,” Nansel concluded.
