This weekly update spotlights rising cases of sexual violence in the Niger Delta with a particular focus on rape and female child molestation in Akwa Ibom State. According to data (see map below), over 20 incidents of sexual violence including rape and child molestation were reported in Akwa Ibom State between January 2016 and May 2020. Recent data indicates an increase in reported cases of rape and child sexual abuse in the state. In May 2020, for instance, a 17-year old girl was reportedly raped by her 30-year old nephew in Ikot Ambon community, Ibesikpo Asutan LGA. In June 2020, an 8-year old girl was reportedly defiled by a clergyman in Ntak Inyang village, Etim Ekpo LGA. In a separate incident, in June 2020, an 11-year old girl was reportedly raped by a 60-year old village head in Ikot Inyang, Ibesikpo Asutan LGA. In a more recent incident, on June 23, 2020, a 16-year old girl was reportedly drugged and raped by a 35-year old clergyman in Okon Eket community, Eket LGA. The rising cases of sexual violence has triggered public outcry including a series of protests within the State and the Niger Delta.
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