It is a crucial time to shine light on the heinous issue that plagues our society. Sexual assault is a pervasive and profoundly concerning problem that affects individuals of all ages, genders and backgrounds. It is a traumatic experience that leaves a lasting impact on the victim’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being. We must continue to raise awareness, educate ourselves and others, and work together to prevent and put an end to this abhorrent behaviour.
Sexual assault is defined as any unwanted sexual contact or behaviour. It can have devastating physical, emotional, and psychological consequences for survivors. Addressing sexual assault requires a multifaceted approach that prioritises support for survivors, prevention efforts, and accountability for perpetrators.
Statistics show that over 81 per cent of women and 43 per cent of men have been victims of sexual assault. Among 310 reports, only 50 resulted in arrest and only a few have been able to obtain justice, while the others have been forced to hide. Survivors of sexual assault often face significant challenges in seeking help and healing from their trauma.
The aftermath of assault can include feelings of shame, guilt, fear, and isolation. These feelings leave them in a position where they are left with a choice of survival or defeat. Due to the nature of society and the lack of awareness as to the idea of sexual assault, survivors are mostly stereotyped as some might be refused job opportunities, and some are given stern looks. At the same time, some have been labelled by society as being “loose” or “wayward”; which is why the issue of sexual awareness needs to be taken very seriously.
Sexual awareness is a wide-ranging concept that involves knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours related to sexuality. It encompasses understanding one’s sexual desires, boundaries, and rights, as well as respecting those of others. Sexual awareness is not just limited to knowledge about sexual context but also includes an understanding of the desires, feelings, motives, and compulsive nature of those who act against it. In today’s rapidly evolving society, fostering sexual awareness has become an essential component of personal development and social responsibility. It is of great importance that society is made aware of issues about sex, human boundaries and the fostering of respect for individuals of the opposite sex, as all these will bring about social responsibility and also aid in the making of individuals in the sense that a proper education of the limit to the body or mind of another can create some individual personal development. Sexual awareness also extends to broader societal issues, such as sexual violence and discrimination.
However, due to the stereotypes received by victims of sexual violence/assault in the country and the little attention posited to them, the country put in place specific rules and laws to curb and prevent sexual assault/violence. In Nigeria, sexual assault is addressed under various laws and statutes at both the federal and state levels.
The Criminal Code Act, applicable in the southern states of Nigeria, contains provisions related to sexual offences. Section 357 of the Act defines rape as unlawful carnal knowledge of a woman or girl without her consent or with her consent if the consent is obtained by force or using threats or intimidation.
The Penal Code Act, applicable in the northern states of Nigeria, also contains provisions related to sexual offences. Section 282 of the Act defines rape as sexual intercourse with a woman without her consent or with her consent if the consent is obtained by force, threat, or intimidation.
The Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act was enacted in 2015 to address various forms of violence, including sexual violence. It criminalises acts such as rape, sexual assault, and other forms of sexual violence. The Act provides for stricter penalties for sexual offences and emphasises the protection and support of survivors.
The Child Rights Act, adopted by several states in Nigeria, protects children against various forms of abuse, including sexual abuse. It prohibits sexual intercourse with a child under the age of 18 and imposes penalties for offenders.
The Administration of Criminal Justice Act provides procedures for administering criminal justice in Nigeria, including handling cases related to sexual assault. It emphasises the protection of the rights of victims and witnesses and aims to ensure speedy and fair trials.
Survivors of sexual assault often face significant challenges in seeking help and healing from their trauma. The aftermath of assault can include feelings of shame, guilt, fear, and isolation. Providing survivors access to comprehensive support services, including counselling, medical care, and legal assistance, is crucial. Creating safe and confidential spaces where survivors can seek help and support without judgment is essential for their recovery and well-being.
Educational initiatives play a crucial role in promoting sexual awareness from a young age. Comprehensive sex education programmes empower individuals with accurate information about anatomy, reproduction, consent, and healthy relationships. By equipping young people with the knowledge and skills they need to navigate their sexual lives responsibly, these programmes can help prevent unwanted pregnancies, sexually transmitted infections, and sexual violence.
Prevention efforts are also critical in addressing sexual assault. Education is vital in raising awareness about consent, boundaries, and healthy relationships. Comprehensive sex education programmes in schools and communities can empower individuals with the knowledge and skills they need to recognise and prevent sexual violence. Additionally, bystander intervention training equips individuals with strategies to intervene safely and effectively when they witness potentially harmful situations.
Individuals can create a culture of consent and accountability by challenging victim-blaming attitudes and supporting survivors. By advocating policies and practices that promote sexual health and rights, individuals can help create a more just and equitable society for all.
Moreover, addressing the root causes of sexual violence requires challenging societal attitudes and norms that perpetuate rape culture and victim-blaming. It includes dismantling stereotypes, promoting respect for boundaries and autonomy, and holding individuals and institutions accountable for their actions. By fostering a culture of consent and respect, we can create safe environments where sexual assault is less likely to occur.
Accountability for perpetrators is essential in addressing sexual assault and preventing future harm. It includes holding perpetrators accountable through the criminal justice system and implementing policies and practices prioritising survivor-centred responses. It is crucial to ensure that survivors have access to legal recourse and that perpetrators are held accountable for their actions.
Furthermore, addressing sexual assault requires collaboration and coordination among various stakeholders, including government agencies, law enforcement, healthcare providers, educators, and community organisations. By working together, we can develop comprehensive strategies to prevent sexual violence, support survivors, and hold perpetrators accountable.
In conclusion, addressing sexual assault requires a holistic approach that prioritises support for survivors, prevention efforts, and accountability for perpetrators. By providing survivors with comprehensive support services, raising awareness about consent and healthy relationships, challenging societal attitudes that perpetuate sexual violence, and holding perpetrators accountable for their actions, we can create safer and more equitable communities for all. Together, we can work towards healing, prevention, and justice in the fight against sexual assault.
