Death For Rape In Nigeria: A Closer Look At The New Kaduna State Penal Law
Death For Rape In Nigeria: A Closer Look At The New Kaduna State Penal Law

Summary/Abstract: In June of 2020, all 36 State governors in Nigeria declared a state of emergency over rape and other gender-based violence against women and children in the country. This came after a national outcry following the rape and murder of two young girls. In November 2020, the UN reported that at least 3,600 cases of rape were recorded during the nationwide lockdown occasioned by Covid-19. These figures are indeed very alarming, and a firm collective response as a society is necessary. Several groups have called for the death penalty and/or castration of convicted rapists. In fact, Kaduna State has amended its laws to prescribe both punishments. There is worry especially on the international scene, on the efficacy of such a law. This article examines the effectiveness of harsher penalty to deter crime as regards rape. The existing judicial system in Nigeria was also examined against the background of implementation. There is no sufficient evidence for a compelling case as regards the effectiveness of stiffer penalties to deter crime. Sensational measures such as death and castration may momentarily satiate the public thirst for blood but will ultimately fail to have any meaningful impact on solving this problem. However, criminal justice reforms such as the VAPP Act gives good ground to protect victims and ensure justice. But the amendment of laws and partial adoption of reforms only constitute the foundation of lasting solution. A sustainable solution will require even more systemic reforms starting from a uniform ratification of the VAPP Act across Nigeria. This article explores some suggested reforms for a more robust response to the menace of rape.

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