CAUSES AND CONSEQUENCES OF RAPE AMONG RESIDENTS OF JERE LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF BORNO STATE

The studies discusses the causes and consequences of rape among residents of Maiduguri reveals a multifaceted crisis rooted in conflict, societal norms, and economic hardship, resulting in devastating physical and psychological trauma for survivors. The Boko Haram insurgency has been a primary driver, with sexual violence used as a weapon of war, leading to mass abductions, forced marriages, and systematic rape. Socio-cultural factors significantly contribute to the prevalence of rape. Deep-seated patriarchal norms, gender inequality, and a culture of silence surrounding sexual violence create an environment where perpetrators often act with impunity. The stigmatization of survivors further discourages reporting, hindering access to justice and support services. Economic vulnerability, exacerbated by displacement and poverty, also forces many into precarious situations, increasing their risk of sexual exploitation and assault. Studies specifically focusing on female students and child laborers in Maiduguri have highlighted alarmingly high rates of sexual assault, often perpetrated by individuals known to the victims. The consequences for survivors are severe and far-reaching. Physically, victims of rape suffer from injuries, unwanted pregnancies, and sexually transmitted infections, including HIV/AIDS. The psychological toll is equally profound, leading to long-term trauma, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and in some cases, suicide. Socially, survivors often face ostracism from their communities and families, rejection by spouses, and diminished opportunities for education and employment. The breakdown of social support systems, particularly in internally displaced persons (IDP) camps, further isolates survivors and impedes their recovery. These multifaceted consequences underscore the urgent need for comprehensive medical, psychosocial, and legal support for rape survivors in Maiduguri.