Two Individuals Convicted and Sentenced for Rape
Two individuals have been convicted and sentenced for separate incidents of rape in Cross River State. These cases shed light on the pervasive issue of Rape and the urgent need for stronger measures to combat such crimes.
On Tuesday, January 30, 2024, Godwin Brown Akpan, a 52-year-old man, was sentenced to two years imprisonment for the rape of an 11-year-old girl. The despicable act occurred on December 2, 2021, when Akpan deceitfully lured the young girl to his residence under false pretenses and proceeded to commit the heinous crime. The sentencing of Akpan serves as a reminder of the vulnerability of children to predators and the importance of swift and decisive legal action in such cases.
Shortly after Akpan’s sentencing, on Tuesday, February 8, 2024, Samuel Ita, a 25-year-old man, was found guilty of raping his 15-year-old cousin and was sentenced to life imprisonment for his abhorrent actions, highlighting the severity of the crime and the lasting impact it has on the survivor. In addition to the life sentence, Ita was also ordered to pay one million naira in compensation to the survivor.
The successful prosecution and sentencing of these individuals would not have been possible without the dedicated efforts of various stakeholders, including the Ministry of Justice, FIDA (International Federation of Women Lawyers), Basic Rights Counsel Initiative, the Nigerian Police, and all those involved in ensuring that justice was served for the survivors. Their commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting survivors of Rape is commendable and reflects a collective determination to combat such heinous crimes.
As these cases demonstrate, the fight against rape is far from over. It is imperative for society as a whole to stand united in condemning Rape and advocating for stricter measures to prevent such atrocities from occurring. By raising awareness, supporting survivors, and holding perpetrators accountable, a safer and more just society will be created for all.