Features

Rape: Blaming the Victim as the Perpetrator

Published

4 years ago

June 27, 2020

By Muhsin Ibrahim and Amina Haruna

Sexual violence and rape occur worldwide. Some rape incidents defy any logic, while others may be associated with sadism, paedophilia, other types of paraphilia (i.e. sexual disorders). Consequently, throughout history, people weaponize sex. Women, including underage, are mostly the victims. Soldiers raped numerous women during and in the aftermath of World War II. Years later, more soldiers and militias raped women in the Yugoslav Wars of the early 1990s. Most recently, in 2015, French peacekeepers were charged for sexually abusing children in the Central African Republic in exchange for food and money. The stories are similar during several civil wars in other parts of Africa and beyond.

Rape happens in peacetime, too. Now and again, news of rape springs up in countries, particularly India. In a widely watched documentary, in 2013, the BBC World Services described India as the most dangerous place to be a woman. While there are rape cases in Nigeria such as Boko Haram insurgents’ loveless, abusive marriage to the mostly schoolgirls they have abducted, other ‘ordinary’ cases primarily remain below the radar. Why?

As Nigerians, many of us may recall stories of rape cases in our neighbourhoods. However, the matter is usually discussed in whispers for some outdated socio-cultural and, perhaps, religious reasons. More often than not, talking about rape is considered a hot-button issue, and, outrageously, the victims end up being blamed. Some of those helpless victims carry the scars of the blame to their graves. In other words, the victims are not only accused of inviting the assault to themselves but also stigmatized after it. The stigma can sometimes become permanent.

With the Covid-19 pandemic ravaging the world, people remain under a lockdown or other kinds of restrictions. Nigeria has reported an alarming spike of sexual violence against women and children in the past few weeks. The whole situation is practically adding insult to the injury, which Nigerians survive in. The news of insecurity, abject poverty, massive loss of jobs, among other ills, barely ruffles Nigerians anymore. They are, sadly, considered the norm. Human lives are no more than numbers.

Nevertheless, there is every need to remember and humanize the majority of rape victims suffering in silence due to the stigma, as mentioned earlier, and humiliation. We need to combat rape and other misogynistic attitudes towards women.
Regardless of age, the effect of rape goes far beyond physical injuries. The trauma alone can lead to anxiety disorders, depression, low self-esteem, troubling flashbacks and other unpleasant memories.

The world would not seem like a safe place anymore. The victim can, often, no longer trust people around her, not even herself. And out of everywhere, the victim-blaming starts. Yes, the victim is blamed. One wonders, why?

Some people are always quick to question the victim’s mode of dressing or how sexy she appears, or why she was at a particular place at a specific time. But then why are babies and children also raped and assaulted? No doubt, modesty in dressing is protection to woman, it does not and cannot always save a woman from a rapist. Another flimsy nay groundless excuse is the supposed victim’s silence during the assault. Some query why didn’t she shout and fight? Failure to do so means she wanted it. Do you know that during an attack, the brain and body shut down in shock, therefore making it impossible to think, speak or even move, a term known as tonic immobility?

The recent rape and murder of 22-year-old Uwavera Omuzuwa, a university student at a church in Edo State, is a typical example. Some insensitive people interrogated her presence at the church; adding why was she studying there while school was not in session? In other words, saying she was at fault, and she, not the perpetrator, bore the responsibility of the attack. Perhaps one may ask, why then was the 18-year-old Barakat Bello gang-raped and murdered at her family house in Oyo State? Also, why the 3-month-old Rukkayya, surreptitiously stolen from her mother’s bed, was mercilessly raped and dumped in Nassarawa State? Among many more such examples.

A lot of rape cases are underreported or unreported. The victims do not even know who to talk to, as people become suspicious. The victims are blamed and advised to change to avoid getting raped again. That is heart-wrenching and demoralizing. The conclusion and blame game put the lives of millions of women at risk. Many will resort to keeping mum and eventually die in silence due to frustration and depression. Regardless of the circumstance, the one who should feel guilty is the perpetrator. Let’s say this out loud: Women lives matter!
Worse still, Nigeria has a meagre conviction rate for rapists and other sexual abusers.

Thousands of cases stay longer in courts to the extent that the victims become exasperated, hopeless and eventually give up. The government should look into this and act accordingly. We wholeheartedly support the proposal of castrating any convicted rapist if not all other sex offenders. In their book, The Causes of Rape, Lalumiere et al. (2005) report that convicted rapists are more likely than others to commit sexual offences once again after their sentences. Thus, there is a need to terminate their sexual urge permanently.

Notwithstanding all the challenges entails in rape cases, it is high time people spoke out more about the horrible topic and encourage the victims, too, to speak up. The victims need our support, understanding, empathy and sympathy. Talking about it can be therapeutic to some of them. The healing process can be painful. It’s also noteworthy to mention the efforts of some human right groups that assist in the often tortuous, expensive legal battles. But, what about countless others that remain unidentified or muzzled? While women must be more careful, the perpetrators MUST be held accountable.

Rape victims,
We hear you
We see you
We believe you!

About the authors
Amina Haruna lectures at the College of Arts and Remedial Studies, Kano. She can be reached via meenahharoun@gmail.com

Muhsin Ibrahim teaches and studies at the University of Cologne. He can be contacted through muhsin2008@gmail.com

Features

Ibrahim Ayyuba Isah: From Journalism to Shaping the Future of PR and Digital Marketing

Published

6 days ago

July 21, 2024

Nigerian Tracker

Ibrahim Ayyuba Isah

Ibrahim Ayyuba Isah, a distinguished journalist with over a decade of experience, has made a significant transition into the dynamic fields of public relations, creative, and digital marketing. Known for his in-depth reporting and insightful analysis, Isah is now leveraging his extensive journalism background to make a substantial impact in his new ventures.

Isah’s career began with a strong foundation in journalism, where he worked with prominent media houses such as Africa Independent Television (AIT), Raypower FM, and Rahma Radio. His roles ranged from producer and presenter to a radio personality, earning him a reputation for delivering accurate and compelling stories. Currently, he serves as a Senior Reporter at TVC Communications, where he anchors the popular program “Kano Spotlight,” providing in-depth coverage and analysis of events in Kano State.

His educational background is extensive and diverse. Isah holds a Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature from Bayero University, Kano, and a Master’s degree in Public Relations and Communication Studies from the same institution. Additionally, he studied Solutions and Data Journalism at Pan Atlantic University. He also earned a Professional Certificate in Digital Marketing from the London School of Business Administration. Recently, he completed a Master Diploma in Digital Marketing awarded by the Digital Marketing Institute Lagos, Nigeria, powered by Digital Marketing Skills LLC, United States of America. In the area of social media, Isah received a certificate from Avalocx University of Social Media in New York, United States, after completing a High Level Social Media Management Course. This academic prowess, combined with his practical experience, positions him as a versatile professional in the realm of public relations and digital marketing.

Isah’s transition into public relations and digital marketing is marked by significant roles such as Knowledge Management and Communication Officer for the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones Project, and Public and Media Relations Consultant for the Flour Milling Association of Nigeria. Currently, he is performing a lead role in managing the PR and communications as a consultant for the WOFAN-ICON2 Project in partnership with Mastercard Foundation. In these positions, he has demonstrated his ability to craft compelling narratives and strategic communications that resonate with diverse audiences.

As a Digital Marketing Strategist and PR Consultant, Isah is exploring innovative ways to blend traditional journalism with modern digital techniques. His expertise in SEO, social media management, website development, and video editing allows him to create comprehensive digital marketing campaigns that drive engagement and achieve tangible results.

Ibrahim Ayyuba Isah is also an Associate Member of the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) and the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), as well as a member of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Kano Correspondents’ Chapel and the Sports Writers Association, Kano Chapter. His dedication to his craft and his continuous pursuit of excellence reflect his commitment to making a difference in his new field. As he explores the intersections of PR, creative, and digital marketing, he aims to shape the future of communication strategies in Nigeria and beyond.

Features

Rano Celebrates New Emir with Grand Procession and Festivities

Published

1 week ago

July 18, 2024

Nigerian Tracker

The historic town of Rano was abuzz with jubilation today as residents welcomed their newly appointed emir, Alhaji Muhammadu Isah Umaru (Autan Bawo), recently appointed by Kano state Governor Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf.

The new emir entered the palace in Rano town accompanied by hundreds of people who came out to celebrate the occasion.

The procession displayed cultural heritage with traditional drummers, dancers, and horse riders showcasing the history of the Rano emirate. The streets near the emir’s palace were adorned with colorful decorations as the people of Rano expressed their joy and support for their new leader.

One resident, Malam Sani Rano, shared his excitement, saying, “We are very happy with the appointment of Alhaji Muhammadu Isah Umaru as our new emir. He is a man of integrity and wisdom, and we believe he will lead us towards greater prosperity and unity.”

Hajiya Fatima Sani, another resident, echoed similar sentiments. “Today is a special day for us in Rano. The new emir has always been close to the people, understanding our needs and aspirations. We have high hopes for his reign.”

The new Emir on the throne,Muhammad Isah Umaru

The appointment of Alhaji Muhammadu Isah Umaru has been met with widespread approval, with many residents expressing optimism about the future of the emirate under his leadership.

The procession at Rano Emirate

Bashir Ibrahim, a local trader, remarked, “Muhammadu Isah Umaru has a deep connection with our traditions and values. His leadership will surely bring about positive changes and strengthen our cultural heritage.”

As the celebrations continued into the evening, the atmosphere in Rano remained festive and hopeful. The people of Rano are looking forward to a prosperous era under the guidance of their new emir, Alhaji Muhammadu Isah Umaru.

Features

A tale from the north: the untold story of Hassan

Published

3 weeks ago

July 8, 2024

Nigerian Tracker

Hassan Auwalu Muhammad

In the central part of Northern Nigeria, there lives a man called Hassan Auwalu Muhammad who was born in the ancient city of Kano from the popular Hausa tribal clan.

At the age of 10, Hassan loss his beloved Dad, Late Sharu Muhammad (Memakoko) whose personality has been described by many, as an exemplary figure of humility, moral eminence, humbleness, and greatness. To Hassan, his father is the most amazing person he has ever known.

Hassan grew up on a lifestyle which premised on the quest for knowledge. To seek for knowledge, he was sent to Unguru village in Yobe state to acquire islamic knowledge and learn the tenets and fundamentals of his religion- Islam.

Surprisingly, Hassan’s inquisitiveness and curiosity began to developed which as a result, he eventually became a fan of media. Meanwhile, he developed interest in the Journalism profession. Thanks to BBC Hausa, VOA Hausa and DW Hausa programes which remained the sources of inspiration and motivation for him to be passionate about journalism and even understood the basic styles and standards of these prominent international media organizations.

From that moment, Hassan who was at his teenage age have already realized how the media could be used in a way to promote unity, peace and progress of his country. Hence, the media became his most preferred choice and the struggle to join the train just began.

After the completion of his secondary school, Hassan made several attempts to secure admission into a degree program at Bayero University, Kano but all attempts prove abortive because his scores were below the required average marks of the post-UTME . For that reason, Hassan had to apply for admission into Diploma programe in Mass Communication. Fortunately for him, he was admitted and years after, he obtained a professional and Advanced Diploma in Mass Communication from the pretigious Bayero University, Kano..

Having obtained diploma certificates, Hassan decided to further his education and sat for UTME Exams which took him 7years before he eventually scored the required marks that gave him the chance to be admitted into a Degree programe in 2015, at Bayero University Kano. Hassan graduated in 2021 with second class in Mass Communication.

In 2008, Hassan started his early career in Journalism Profession as a Freelancer with Freedom Radio Kano 99.5 FM. In 2010, he was an artiste reporter for years until 2013 when he was offered a full time appointment as a staff member of Freedom Radio.

Hassan dive into the Profession as a preseter of Kano Music Expres – a programe which the idea was conceived and developed by him in order to promote Kano based Hausa rappers.

Hassan was there for a while and has achieved so much with that programe before he was deployed to the station’s on- air studio to serve as a DCA- Duty Continuity Announcer. Being one of the best On-Air Personal , Hassan’s talents could not be left unused, as such he canvases news from different sources and translate it from English to Hausa for “Inda Ranka” programe.

What other passion for Hasssan ?

Initially, Hassan had always wanted to be a pilot, but his dream was shattered by the huge financial responsibility and expectations attached to joining the aviation sector.

But having joined the Media industry, Hassan understood the virtues attached to journalism profession and since then he has been a catalyst for development which through his media content he produces reports that help in changing the lives and mindsets of the teeming youths in a positive way.

However, Hassan believes that working in media has its challenges and requires dedication and sacrifices as well as being honest and true to people. Journalism is all about honesty and truthfulness to present facts that will bring about positive and progressive social transformation in the society.

Besides being a DCA, Hassan is currently presenting three different programes: “Allah Daya…”, “Mai Nema…” and also a co-presenter of “Barka da Hantsi” all from the famous Radio Station, Freedom Radio Group.