Lagos – An Educationist, Mrs Abimbola Whenayon, on Monday called for stiffer penalties, including death, against rapists and those engaged in other forms of sexual abuse and violence against children in the country.
Whenayon, who heads the Head of Department of Education, Ojokoro Local Council Development Area, Ijaye, made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos.
She described the rate of sexual molestation and abuse of children in the country as worrisome, adding that the perpetrators were beasts, who must be treated as outcasts.
“It is inhumane to me; it is very crooked of anyone to take advantage of innocent children or think of sexual relationship of such nature with them.
“It is very sad that men, both old and young, can no longer control themselves, when the urge arises.
“I recommend to the government to adopt stiffer penalties such as death sentence, castration and life imprisonment.
“We need to review the laws on sexual assault and rape to international standards,’’ she said.
Whenayon recommended that sex education be thought in schools, places of worship, markets and homes.
She said governments, stakeholders and parents should champion the crusade on war against sexual abuse on minors and young girls.
“We should not limit our awareness on sex education to schools, we should teach our children about sex early enough so that they can avoid becoming victims.
“Many children have been victims of rape because their parents failed to carry out their duties; if parents adopt this technique, it will curb the extent of abuses.”(NAN)
