Edo rape case: FIDA calls on security agencies to investigate, prosecute perpetrators
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria, Edo State Branch has called on all Security Agencies in the State to thoroughly investigate the case of Miss Vera Uwaila Omozuwa, who died from complications of injuries inflicted on her after she was allegedly gang-raped by some hoodlums in a church.
Omozuwa, 23, was a 100 level student of the Department of Microbiology, University of Benin (UNIBEN).
In a statement signed by Florence Okundaye, Publicity Secretary/PRO FIDA condemned the evil and monstrous act adding that such an act should not be condoned by any reasonable person or society.
FIDA Edo also decried all forms of Sexual Abuse and Violence against Women and Girls and states that they are serious and widespread problems that have lasting impacts on individuals, families, communities and burdens our society with major health and safety issues.
The body further called on the Government, who is saddled with the responsibility of providing security to her citizens, Security Agencies and Individuals to hold those who commit sexual violence accountable and face the law regardless of their standing in the community, their power, their fame, or their wealth.
FIDA reiterated her commitments to protecting, preserving, and promoting the rights of Women and Children, while also not relent until the case of Vera Uwaila Omonzuwa is brought to a logical conclusion and ensure that justice prevails.
The body commiserated with Omozuwa’s family, while also praying that God gives them the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.
The statement reads: “The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria, Edo State Branch received with great shock and sadness the news of the despicable and heinous act of rape which led to the death of Miss Vera Uwaila Omozuwa.
“Miss Vera Uwaila Omozuwa is reported to be a 100 level student of the Department of Microbiology, University of Benin (UNIBEN) aged 23 years old was allegedly raped, inflicted injuries on her with fire extinguisher cylinder by some hoodlums and subsequently died in the hospital in Benin City.
“The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) strongly condemn the evil and monstrous act and states that such act should not be condoned by any reasonable person or society.
“We therefore call on all Security Agencies to wit; the Police and State Security Service to thoroughly investigate the case and do the needful in ensuring that the perpetrators are brought to book very quickly.
“FIDA Edo decries all forms of Sexual Abuse and Violence against Women and Girls and states that they are serious and widespread problems that have lasting impacts on individuals, families, communities and burdens our society with major health and safety issues.
“We further call on the Government who is saddled with the responsibility of providing security to her citizens, Security Agencies and Individuals to hold those who commit sexual violence accountable and face the law regardless of their standing in the community, their power, their fame, or their wealth.
“FIDA therefore reiterate her commitments to protecting, preserving and promoting the rights of Women and Children and will not relent until the case of Vera Uwaila Omonzuwa is brought to a logical conclusion and ensure that Justice prevails.
“We sincerely commiserate with her family and pray that God gives them the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss. May God rest her gentle soul.”
