Rapists are on the loose across Nigeria, inflicting violence, trauma, and in some cases, death on women, girls, and children. The increasing frequency of rape incidents reported in the media is alarming, as recent cases illustrate the audacity of the perpetrators. Despite frequent arrests and prosecutions, the problem persists, demanding that security agencies and state governments intensify efforts to protect the country’s most vulnerable populations.

In one shocking incident last week, police in Abeokuta, Ogun State, arrived at the home of a secondary school teacher, Lateef Olaniran, to arrest him for an alleged rape, only to find him in the act of violating another victim. In Lagos, Jelili Lawal was arraigned at a court for raping a woman in her 70s to death after she had asked him for directions. These cases underscore the boldness with which these criminals operate, seemingly undeterred by the law.

The violence extends beyond women. In Enugu, a 70-year-old man was arrested for allegedly raping a 13-year-old deaf-mute girl who later died from her injuries. In another horrifying case in Benue State, a motorcyclist abducted and savagely raped an eight-month pregnant woman. The cruelty displayed in these incidents reflects the depth of the problem.

What is even more concerning is that no age group seems to be spared. From infants to elderly women, and even boys, sexual predators target anyone they can overpower. Armed robbers, kidnappers, and terrorists, particularly Fulani herdsmen, have been reported to rape their victims routinely during attacks. This crime, often under-reported, is widespread across the country.

Globally, rape is one of the most severe forms of violence. The World Population Review estimates that around 35 percent of women worldwide have experienced sexual assault, with UN Women highlighting over 11,200 reported cases in Nigeria in 2020 alone. Victims of rape face long-lasting consequences, including depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), sexually transmitted infections, and even suicidal tendencies.

To address this epidemic, Nigerian states have enacted harsher punishments. Kaduna, for example, now mandates castration for convicted rapists, while others impose lengthy prison sentences. The police have become more responsive to rape complaints, but more needs to be done.

State governments should scale up their efforts, strengthening and adequately funding agencies dealing with domestic violence and rape. A national database of convicted rapists and pedophiles should be established to monitor these offenders and ensure they are restricted from further harming society. As is common in many Western countries, convicted rapists should be required by law to regularly report to police and social welfare officers.

Rape in Nigeria is rapidly becoming an epidemic. Authorities must respond more vigorously, ensuring severe punishment for offenders and taking preventive measures to protect vulnerable populations from these heinous acts.