Prof. Joy Ezeilo, leader of a coalition of Non-Governmental Organisations and Rights Group, has called for the establishment of a DNA laboratory for investigation of rape cases in Nigeria.
Ezeilo, who is also the founder of an organisation, Women Aid Collective (WACOL) made the call on Friday in Enugu during a protest against incessant violence against women.
Ezeilo said the Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) would help facilitate investigation of rape cases in the country.
According to her, the problem with investigation of rape cases is in proving the ingredients and elements of the offense beyond reasonable doubt. “ Some people are calling for stiffer penalty.
The problem is not stiffer penalty but rather in proving the ingredients of the offense.
“ The ingredients are no consent, penetration, capacity to do it or incapable of having carnal knowledge”, she said.
She advised that if established,the police should run the laboratory.
Ezeilo further disclosed that during the period of lockdown between April and May, WACOL recorded 156 cases of violence against women, including rape, in Enugu State.
She urged the National and State Assemblies to declare a state of emergency on violence against women.
