Buhari directs IGP to deal with rapists nationwide

President Muhammadu Buhari has directed the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to deal decisively with perpetrators of rape and other gender-based violence in the country.

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo disclosed this at the official launch of the United States Agency for International Development’s Momentum Country and Global Leadership initiative.

The Vice President, who was represented by Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Sadiya Umar Farouq, said the declaration by the Federal Government of zero tolerance for rape and other forms of gender-based violence is a step in the right direction.

He said: “Mr. President directed the Inspector General of Police to deal with all perpetrators further to the declaration of zero tolerance on rape and other gender-based violence as well as constant engagement with the police on the need to promptly address issues of gender-based violence.

“It is time we rose up to the challenges posed by this menace and constantly speak out against this evil perpetrated by mindless individuals. As such, I want to join my voice with all the voices gathered here today to say no to gender-based violence in Nigeria.

“It would be recalled that the Federal Executive Council on June 10, 2020 unanimously declared zero tolerance against gender-based violence in the country in view of the hues and cries that trailed the unacceptable spike in gender-based violence during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown.”