KADUNA - The state assembly in Kaduna, in north-western Nigeria, has approved full surgical castration as punishment for those convicted of rape.
State commissioner for woman’s affairs and social development, Hafsat Baba, described the approval as a "welcome development" saying it will serve as "deterrent" for rapists.
State governor Nasir Ahmad el-Rufai is expected to sign the bill into law.
In June Nigerian governors declared a state of emergency over rape and violence against women and children in the country.
Successful prosecutions of rape suspects remains low. Victims often shy from reporting incidents for fear of being stigmatised. (FA)
