29/11/2025
In support of the 16 days of Activism Against Gender Based Voilence
With the many near victories and dashed hopes faced by survivors and advocates, it is imperative that we focus on strengthening laws against sexual violence in Nigeria. While the _Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP Act)_ exists, its implementation is weak—like most systems in the country—and the gaps remain significant.
Key issues include:
No clear definition of consent, which leaves room for misinterpretation.
- Slow prosecution of cases, which discourages survivors from seeking justice.
- Low conviction rates, as seen in the overturned case of Dr. Femi Olaleye.
Poor survivor support systems, leaving victims without proper care or legal aid.
To address these gaps, we must advocate for reforms and push for:
Harsher punishments for offenders, as leniency encourages repeat offenses.
- *Witness protection* to ensure survivors can testify without fear of retaliation.
- *Dedicated GBV courts* to fast-track cases and deliver timely justice.
We need to lobby lawmakers, join petitions targeting the National Assembly to review the VAPP Act, and use hashtags like * * and * * to amplify our voices.
Beyond legislation, enforcement and accountability must be a priority.
This includes pushing for better prosecution practices, training law enforcement on handling GBV cases, and partnering with CSOs and legal aid groups to support survivors.
Awareness campaigns are equally critical.
We must take the conversation to schools, teaching children about consent and boundaries, and collaborate with the media and advocacy groups to educate the public and dismantle harmful cultural norms.
Laws change with consistent pressure and public outcry.
It is our responsibility to make noise in the right places, demand justice, and advocate for a system that protects survivors and holds abusers accountable. Together, we can get things done the right way.