by Theresa U. Akumadu

Anyone who is convicted for rape is liable to life imprisonment, so says the Child Rights Law in Nigeria (31(2). Enacted by the federal government in May 2003, the CRL has been replicated by over 13 states in the federation. But who is enforcing the law? Women and girls continue to be molested, raped, and trafficked for sexual exploitation. Survivors are frustrated, families are ashamed, and police officers that ought to enforce the law are fast competing for the prize for the worst rapists of the year, as recent reported cases have revealed. Three examples out of many will suffice. Sunday Tribune of 30 September, 2007 reported the rape of a seven year old girl by a retired Air Force officer in Makurdi, Benue State. The girl was rescued all bloodied from the dastardly act by the vigilante group in the area following an alarm raised by a woman who heard the girl's cry. On the 10 of March 2007, Sunday Sun Newspapers reported the rape of a 14 year old girl in police custody. On the 2^nd of May 2007, Radio Nigeria reported the rape of a 3 year-old girl by a police constable.

Theresa U. Akumadu is National Coordinator of the Global Fund for Women Grantees Network (GFWGN) & President of Model Mission of Assistance in Africa (Momi Africa) Besides being direct offenders, police officers often let other abusers and rapists off the hook under the excuse of culture, especially where the offenders are family members or relatives. These excuses and laxities create loopholes for further abuse and further impunity, as abusers go on a merry-go-round.

Enacting laws are not enough; what is more important is the enforcement of the law to protect those it is supposed to protect. More focus needs to be on actions to create the will and wherewithal to seek and obtain justice.