The Niger State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to combating rape, child abuse, and all forms of gender-based violence across the state.
The state’s Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Hadiza Kuta, stated this while speaking with journalists in her office in Minna, the state capital.
Hajiya Hadiza expressed concern over the increasing number of rape and child molestation cases being reported and stressed the government’s determination to ensure justice for victims.
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The Commissioner revealed she recently attended a court hearing involving a teenage girl who her grandfather allegedly impregnated.
Kuta said several similar cases, including an alleged sexual assault case in Kontagora, are before the courts.
She noted that the ministry is working with relevant authorities to ensure justice for victims and is exploring measures to make bail more difficult for suspects in serious rape and child abuse cases.
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Expressing deep concern over the rising cases of sexual violence, Hajiya Hadiza said Governor Umaru Mohammed Bago has pledged support for stronger action against offenders.
She disclosed that plans are underway to establish a committee involving key stakeholders, including the judiciary, the Ministry of Justice, and the Ministry of Women’s Affairs, to strengthen prosecution processes and secure justice for victims.
The commissioner identified social stigma and poor family support as major obstacles to prosecuting rape cases.
She urged parents, community, traditional and religious leaders to support victims rather than stigmatise them, stressing the need for rehabilitation and psychological care for survivors.
