According to the charge sheet, Okajere allegedly had sexual intercourse with his daughter without her consent. The magistrate, Mr L.A. Owolabi did not take the defendant’s plea. He ordered that Okajere be remanded for 30 days pending the receipt of advice from the Director of Public Prosecution. The case has been adjourned until April 12, 2023, for mention.
Rape is a serious crime in Nigeria and is punishable under the law. The country has been experiencing a surge in rape cases, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has expressed concern over the alarming rate of sexual violence, particularly against women and children. NAPTIP has called on the government and relevant stakeholders to take drastic measures to address the issue.
Victims of rape often face stigma and discrimination in Nigeria, and many do not report the crime due to fear of victim-blaming and reprisal attacks. However, there have been several efforts by the government and civil society organizations to address the issue. In 2019, Nigeria's President Muhammadu Buhari signed into law the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, which criminalizes several forms of violence, including rape.
Sexual violence remains a major challenge in Nigeria, and stakeholders are advocating for more stringent measures to be put in place to address the issue. This includes public education campaigns to raise awareness about rape and other forms of sexual violence, as well as the provision of adequate support and services for survivors.
The remand of Okajere in prison sends a strong message that rape will not be tolerated in Nigeria, and the judicial system will continue to hold perpetrators accountable.