By Eze Patience Nnedinso
Gender-Based Violence (GBV) is on the rise, with disturbing images and reports flooding the internet daily. While many cases go unreported, even those that do often fail to deliver justice, leaving victims to face discrimination from both their families and society.
Statistics paint a grim picture. According to endgbv.africa, approximately 31% of women in Nigeria have experienced physical violence since the age of 15, mostly at the hands of intimate partners. Globally, one in three women—around 736 million—have been subjected to physical and/or sexual violence by a partner or non-partner, according to a UN Women report. This number does not even account for sexual harassment.
In 2023 alone, 51,100 women and girls worldwide were killed by intimate partners or family members—an average of 140 women every day. While 60% of all female homicides occur in the private sphere, only 12% of male homicides follow the same pattern. Meanwhile, 15 million adolescent girls (ages 15–19) worldwide have experienced forced sex, yet only 1% of victims seek professional help due to fear, stigma, and lack of support.
The Price of Speaking Out
The case of Senator Natasha Akpoti’s sexual harassment allegations against Senate President, Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio highlights the complexities of speaking out against powerful individuals. While some dismiss her claims, others recognize the need for a fair and serious investigation.
It’s alarming that many question Senator Akpoti’s credibility based on her personal life. This reflects a deeper societal problem: predators rely on societal norms to silence victims. The idea that a woman’s past can discredit her allegations is not only flawed but dangerous.
Former Senator Ita Giwa’s suggestion that women can avoid harassment by maintaining self-confidence and being “unapproachable” is problematic. This mindset shifts responsibility onto victims rather than addressing the actions of perpetrators. Preventing harassment is not a victm’s burden; it is society’s duty to hold abusers accountable.
From Stigma to Justice
Sexual violence cases are often difficult to prove, and the burden of proof falls on the accuser. While Senator Akpoti claims to have evidence, it is crucial to allow due process. However, the bigger issue remains: victims should not be discredited before they even get a chance to be heard.
If a woman in a position of power struggles for a fair hearing, what chance does the average citizen have?
To combat GBV, we must shift our focus from stigmatization to thorough investigation and justice. We need to foster a society where survivors feel empowered to speak up—without fear of shame, blame, or backlash. Ending victim stigmatization is not just about supporting individuals; it’s about ensuring a safer, more just society for all.
It is important to note that this article does not assert the guilt of the accused in this example but rather emphasizes the need for fair hearing and justice.
