Experts are calling for Nigeria to expand its framework for addressing sex crimes, highlighting the need for clearer laws and more resources to support survivors. According to Naomi Osemedua, women have extraordinary stories, but many struggle to tell them due to societal pressures and lack of support. The current laws in Nigeria primarily focus on rape, but experts argue that this narrow approach leaves many survivors of sex-by-deception without recourse.
The concept of consent plays a crucial role in defining rape, and experts argue that obtaining consent through fraud or deception constitutes sexual violence. Jed Rubenfeld, Professor of Law at Yale University, notes that "fraud invalidates consent just as force does." He emphasizes that when lies induce someone to agree to something they otherwise wouldn't have agreed to, they are differently situated. This highlights the need for Nigeria to adopt a more comprehensive approach to addressing sex crimes.
Many survivors of sex-by-deception in Nigeria face significant challenges in speaking out about their experiences, often due to fear of social stigma and lack of support services. The Association of Psychiatrists in Nigeria reports that there are only about 250 practicing psychiatrists and 122 trauma-focused therapists for the country's growing population of over 200 million people. As a result, survivors often seek refuge and support from untrained religious personalities.
The low conviction rates for sex crimes in Nigeria further exacerbate the issue. According to data from the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), only 20 persons have been convicted of sexual and gender-based offences this year, with only three resulting in life imprisonment. Experts argue that this highlights the need for a more effective framework for addressing sex crimes and holding perpetrators accountable.
The impact of sex-by-deception on survivors can be severe, with many experiencing trauma and psychological distress. The lack of resources and support services available to survivors in Nigeria means that many are left to suffer in silence. The AWP Network, founded by Olushoga, is working to address the issue, but experts argue that more needs to be done to support survivors and prevent sex-by-deception.
The Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act (VAPP) is yet to be fully adopted in Nigeria, which has hindered efforts to prosecute sex crimes effectively. Experts argue that the adoption of this act is crucial in providing a framework for addressing sex crimes and protecting the rights of survivors. Furthermore, there is a need for increased awareness and education about sex-by-deception and its impact on survivors.
Ultimately, Nigeria needs to take a comprehensive approach to addressing sex crimes, including expanding its framework to include various forms of sex by deception. The lives and safety of women and girls in Nigeria are at stake if this framework is not expanded to include various forms of sex by deception. Experts argue that empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their sexual conduct and holding perpetrators accountable for their actions are crucial steps in addressing the issue.
Key points
- Nigeria needs to establish statutes and criminalize various forms of sex by deception.
- The country lacks adequate resources and support services for survivors of sex-by-deception.
- Low conviction rates for sex crimes in Nigeria highlight the need for a more effective framework for addressing the issue.
