Why r*pe cases are high, by lawyers – TheNigerialawyer

Why is there a rise in rape cases? It is
because of moral decadence, seductive dressing, dwindling family
bonding and children’s unrestricted access to electronic devices,
say some lawyers.

The lawyers, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), on Tuesday
that the crime wave was worrisome.

One of them, Spurgeon Ataene, said Nigerians should be concerned
by the development.

“Teaching of morals in schools is no longer emphasised. So, at
the formative stage, children go astray, as they are allowed
unlimited access to all manner of electronic devices

“Schools are no longer interested in corrective punishment; male
teachers see nothing wrong in showing amorous affection for
underage female pupils.

“Parents see nothing wrong in children dressing seductively,
families forget that bonding is key to good upbringing, and that a
child needs to talk to parents in a way that confidence is
engendered,” he said.

Ataene said bullying a child would create fear in him or her,
making the child unable to confide in the parent even when touched
inappropriately.

“Male children read, watch videos unrestricted,” he added.

Ataene said workplaces and schools should emphasise decent
dressing.

A rights campaigner, Chief Malcolm Onirhobo, blamed the
development on poor morals at home.

“Some parents no longer teach their children what they should
know, but focus on business and even spend hours on Facebook,
WhatsApp, Instagram and other social media networks.

“General idleness on the part of the youth also plays a role, as
an idle mind is the devil’s playground. Therefore, youths must be
meaningfully engaged,” he said.

Onirhobo called for enlightenment on steps to be taken after
rape, such as exhibiting firsthand evidence of semen deposits,
bruises and other physical signs on the victim.

He said rape victims would speak out if well protected.

Mr. Ayotunde Ologe attributed the problem to “culture of
impunity and silence”.

“Our culture seems to encourage rape, as you often hear some
elders refer to underage girls as, `my wife’.

“The culture of impunity often helps rapists to get away with
the crime,” he said, adding that culture of silence often kept rape
victims from speaking up.

He advocated longer prison terms and castration of convicted
rapists to curb the menace.