By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

Traditional Rulers in Anambra State have decried the rate of rape in the state and the country at large.

They called on parents and guardians to desist from sending their children on errands at odd hours saying that it will help guard against activities of mischievous people, including rapists.

Speaking in Awka the state capital, the monarchs urged the legislature to come up with stiffer laws that would guarantee justice for victims.

In his speech, the traditional ruler of Alor, Idemili North Local Government Area of the state, Igwe Mac Anthony Okonkwo, advocated for stiffer punishments against culprits to serve as a deterrent to others.

While condemning rape in its entirety, he urged parents and caregivers not to hesitate to report incidences of rape to appropriate authorities, so that perpetrators will be brought to book.

He said: “A situation where a father rapes his own daughters is not only a taboo, rape of any kind is condemnable.”

On his part, the traditional ruler of Eziowelle, also in Idemili North LGA, HRH Mike Okonkwo Etusi, said that rapists when convicted should be placed behind bars for a long while so as to be reformed.

Also, HRH Igwe Christopher Okpala of Akwaeze town expressed worries that rape cases have enveloped the entire country.

He urged parents to take adequate care of their children and wards to avoid their falling prey to rapists.