'Child rape, forced marriage on the rise in Plateau'

September 27, 2016 9:20 PM

Plateau State Ministry of Women Affairs has revealed its plans to tackle the increase in child-rape, forced-marriage and violence.

Child rape is growing rampant

The Plateau State Ministry of Women Affairs has expressed its dismay over the

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Ms Fidelia Setle, Assistant Director Child Welfare attached to the ministry said this during a press briefing held on Tuesday, September 27, in Jos.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the press briefing was held in preparation for the formal launch of ‘Action Plan on Ending Violence Against Children’ by the state.

Ms Setle added that the incidences of physical, sexual and emotional violence have also been increasing in the state.

“Child rape, forced and early marriage are very rampant in Plateau.

“We have some instances of incest, where fathers impregnate their daughters, and of some sending their daughters into early marriage.

“Physical violence is also huge in Plateau; you see people using hard objects on children in the name of discipline,” she said.

Setle explained that the launching of the action on violence was meant to curb the menace and free the children of the state from violence.

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She also disclosed that the Wase and Mangu Local Government areas of the state are being set up for the pilot scheme, adding that the LGA's were chosen owing to the high levels of violence against children in the locality.