From Fisayo Akinduro, Osogbo
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Nigerians have been called upon to join hands in waging war against rape and protecting the rights of female children.

The advice was given by a Non Governmental Organization, (NGO), Global Girls Network, during a rally in Osogbo.

Speaking with newsmen, the team leader of the network, Miss Ibikunle Itunuoluwa, called on government  at all levels to be very stringent in dealing with whoever is found culpable,  so as to serve as a deterrent to others.

She said the aim of the organization is empowerment of the girl-child and promotion of their welfare including good education qualitative health and better future prospects.

“We want to ensure that they have a secured environment and also  build them up as a girl child,” she stated.

Itunuoluwa disagreed with the insinuation  that rape is caused by the  girl-child who puts on short skirt.

“We have seen a 44 year-old raping a 4-year- old child, is it because the 4 year old girl dressed indecently.

“Nobody has the right to take advantage of our body. Our body is our right”, she argued

She called on government and Nigerians to stand with them and make ensure that rapists are punished.

“There is need to jail them because prison is a place of rehabilitation. I believe they will learn there.”

Also, a member of the group,  Olajuyin Olaleye, urged people in the society to join hands in protecting  the female child in Nigeria.

She said by joining hands together, rape cases will reduce in  our society.