High Court Sentences Man to 14 Years Imprisonment for Rape

By Ben GBOR

A High Court sitting in Obubra local government area of Cross River State has handed down a 14-year prison sentence to Mr. Ernest Odong Oyira for the crime of rape.

The verdict was delivered on Wednesday, March 27, following a plea bargain arrangement, which saw Oyira's sentence suspended under strict conditions.

According to Barrister James Ibor, Principal Counsel of Basic Rights Counsel Initiative (BRCI), the convict has been ordered to compensate the victim's mother with a sum of N300,000 in damages.

This ruling shows the seriousness with which the judiciary in Cross River State approaches cases of sexual violence and the importance of providing compensation to victims and their families.

The case serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to address sexual assault and uphold justice in the region.

It also highlights the role of organizations like BRCI in advocating for rights of victims and ensuring perpetrators are held accountable for their actions.

The sentence sends a strong message to perpetrators of sexual violence, emphasizing that such crimes will not be tolerated, and justice will be served.

Additionally, it offers a measure of closure and support to the victim and their family as they navigate the aftermath of this traumatic experience.

The decision of the High Court shows the commitment of the judiciary to safeguarding the rights and dignity of all individuals within the community, reaffirming the principle that everyone deserves to live free from the threat of sexual violence