Following the rise in rape cases in Nigeria, the Senate has devised a stern measure to toughen Nigeria’s response to crime against humanity and the weak, as sanctions for rape will now attract life imprisonment.
This decision was unanimously reached on Thursday, October 16, 2014 as the Senate approves the new measure of punishment.
According to the Senate, the bill will address some of the evil customs of the society, and would sufficiently protect people from the excesses of “devilish people”, Senate President, David Mark, said.
Senate member also added that the bill shall seek to eliminate violence in private and public life.
“It specifically prohibits all forms of violence, including physical, sexual, psychological, domestic, harmful traditional practices and discrimination, against persons”.
A person convicted under the section, according to the bill, is liable to imprisonment for life.
However, where the victim is less than 14 years of age, the offender shall be liable to a minimum of 14 years in jail.
“Where the act described under this section is committed by a group of persons, the offence shall be known as gang rape.
“And on conviction the persons shall be liable jointly and severally to a minimum of 20 years imprisonment without an option of fine.
“The court shall also award appropriate compensation to the victim as it may deem fit in the circumstance,” the house added.
The bill is however required to undergo similar passage by the House of Representatives and the president’s ascent to become effective.
