By Vivian Emoni
Mr Samuel Ola, an educationist and member of the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN), has called for joint action by individuals, communities, institutions, and government agencies to combat rape.
Ola made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Abuja, emphasising that sexual satisfaction or emotional pleasure should never be obtained through force.
He noted that rape remained a major societal menace in spite of awareness campaigns, adding that its physical and emotional impact on survivors was often long-lasting and deeply traumatic.
Ola said many perpetrators disregarded the health risks of rape, including sexually transmitted infections such as gonorrhea, herpes, syphilis, HIV, and AIDS, compounding the harm to survivors.
He highlighted that survivors often faced trauma, stigma, shame, and loss of self-esteem, which might affect their mental health and social well-being for the rest of their lives.
Ola urged collaboration among government agencies, NGOs, and community groups to strengthen prevention efforts and provide comprehensive support for rape survivors across Nigeria.
He identified the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Legal Aid Council of Nigeria (LACoN), and other stakeholders as crucial partners in a coordinated effort to curb rape nationwide.
“Education and awareness about consent, healthy relationships, and debunking rape myths are essential, while individuals must learn to respect boundaries and intervene safely when necessary,” Ola said.
He advised communities to foster a culture of consent, support survivors, and engage members in awareness campaigns, while institutions should implement policies, training, and safe environments.
Ola further called on governments to enact and enforce relevant laws, fund awareness campaigns, and support research and data collection to strengthen strategies for rape prevention.
He appealed to all Nigerians to unite in the fight against rape, stressing that preventing it required a sustained, collective effort from individuals, communities, institutions, and government agencies. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Abiemwense Moru