Health News
Nigeria launches first rape helpline as cases increase
Dec 5, 2011, 17:18 GMT
Abuja - Nigeria's government launched Monday a helpline for rape victims after the government said such cases were on the increase.
During a conference on rape in Abuja, officials said the crime is 'a bigger problem than before.' However, no figures have been released.
Africa's most populous nation has no designated law on sexual violence. Convicted rapists typically serve between one and eight years behind bars, but each case is judged individually.
'We hope to change the mind set, attitude and behaviour that perpetrates violence against young girls and women in the country, said Bolaji Abdullahi, Nigeria's Minister of Youth Development.
'It is also important among young men who ... could help to spread the word and help change the mindset of rapists in society,' he said.
The helpline is being viewed as the first step in recognising that Nigeria does not have adequate provision for victims of sexual violence. Calls to the new line are free and allow victims to lodge complaints and receive counselling.
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