Date: Tuesday, 29 October 2024
Author: QUEENNETTE ESSE ODUDU
Country: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
SUMMARY
Child Sexual abuse (CSA) is a serious issue affecting one in four children globally, with estimates ranging from 2.1 to 77.7% in Nigeria. The prevalence of CSA in Nigeria is largely unknown, with disparities in published statistics. CSA causes are multifaceted, including individual, contextual, and environmental factors. Young children, those with learning or physical disabilities, and those with interrupted care histories are more at risk. CSA can lead to physical, psychological, emotional, social, moral, educational, and economic problems, affecting victims' psychosocial development and educational careers.
BACKGROUND
In a heart-wrenching turn of events, three minor victims of sexual abuse by their school proprietor in Ondo State, Nigeria, were coerced into silence. Alice, 16, and her friends had bravely agreed to share their traumatic experiences with the media, seeking justice and exposure of the perpetrator. However, they abruptly withdrew from the story, citing threats and intimidation. Their parents, who had initially supported their decision to speak out, also retracted their consent, naively believing the abuser would change. Furthermore, a courageous former teacher who had risked everything to provide crucial evidence and connect the girls with media and civil society organizations, mysteriously withdrew from the case, attributing it to a spiritual attack. The victims' silence may have been bought by threats, promises of compensation, or both, leaving their quest for justice and healing in jeopardy. This tragic scenario highlights the challenges of combating sexual abuse in Nigeria, where victims often face intimidation, stigma, and cultural pressure to keep silent.
What Constitutes Child Sexual Abuse, and What are its Impacts?
Child sexual abuse occurs when an adult or older adolescent sexually stimulates a youngster. Engaging in sexual activities with a child (whether by asking, pressuring, or any other means), indecent exposure (of the genitals, female nipple, etc.), child grooming, and child sexual exploitation, which includes exploiting a child to generate child pornography, are all examples of child sexual abuse. Child abuse and molestation are different in all areas, particularly because child molestation is a major and widely recognized kind of child abuse. While child abuse is typically regarded as a sensitive subject, it is worth noting that child molestation is the most common type of child abuse. Besides, it is often considered controversial as to what and what connotes child abuse and/or molestation. We should note that the basic rule is that any act perpetrated against a child by an adult or older adolescent that is disadvantageous to him/her and/or that leaves the child vulnerable and/or that the child ordinarily should have control over but due to age and immaturity is lured into.
Child sexual abuse impacts victims in various ways, with the nature and extent of these impacts varying from person to person. Victim-survivors report adverse mental health and wellbeing impacts, including anxiety disorders, depression, eating disorders, sleep disruption, insomnia, and dissociation. Long-term clinical psychiatric diagnoses associated with child sexual abuse include post-traumatic stress disorder and personality disorders.
Child sexual abuse is also associated with adverse physical health conditions in childhood and adulthood, some of which may be interconnected with the mental health impacts of abuse. Sexual abuse can affect children's psychosexual and psychosocial development and attachment, with impacts on sexual functioning and relationships in both adolescence and adulthood. Factors influencing impact include the child's age when the abuse occurred, their relationship to the person who harmed them, the duration of the abuse, other childhood experiences, attachment to non-abusing parents or carers, whether or not the abuse is discovered/disclosed, and responses to its discovery/disclosure.
When Did Child Sexual Abuse Become a Prominent Issue in Nigeria?
Child sexual abuse has been a longstanding issue in Nigeria, but it has gained significant prominence and urgency in recent years due to evolving societal awareness, advocacy efforts, and legal advancements. Historically, the issue of child sexual abuse was often shrouded in silence and stigma, with many cases going unreported and unaddressed. Cultural taboos and traditional beliefs frequently prevented open discussions about sexual abuse, leaving victims with limited recourse and support.
During the early 2000s, there was a notable shift in how child sexual abuse was perceived and addressed in Nigeria. The establishment of various child protection organizations and advocacy groups marked the beginning of a more organized effort to tackle the issue. These organizations worked to raise awareness about child sexual abuse, providing education to the public and engaging in advocacy for stronger protections and support for victims. Their efforts were instrumental in highlighting the pervasive nature of the problem and pushing for reforms.
A significant milestone in the fight against child sexual abuse came with the passage of the Child Rights Act in 2003. This legislation represented a formal recognition of child protection issues within Nigeria’s legal framework. The Child Rights Act was designed to align Nigeria's child protection policies with international standards, addressing not only sexual abuse but also various forms of exploitation and neglect. The Act aimed to provide a comprehensive legal framework for protecting children's rights and ensuring that perpetrators of abuse were held accountable. Despite this progress, implementation and enforcement of the Act faced challenges, including insufficient resources and training for those responsible for enforcing the law.
The 2010 saw a marked increase in the visibility of child sexual abuse in Nigeria, largely due to heightened media coverage and growing public awareness. High-profile cases of abuse began to attract significant attention, and advocacy groups intensified their efforts to address the issue. The rise of social media during this period played a crucial role in amplifying the voices of survivors and activists. Social media platforms became powerful tools for raising awareness, mobilizing public support, and pressuring policymakers to act.
In recent years, the issue of child sexual abuse in Nigeria has been further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic created an environment of increased isolation and economic hardship, which heightened the vulnerability of children and led to a rise in abuse cases. Reports of abuse surged during this period, highlighting the need for more robust support systems and interventions. The pandemic also underscored the importance of strengthening child protection mechanisms and ensuring that victims have access to the help and resources they need.
Despite the progress made in recognizing and addressing child sexual abuse, significant challenges remain. There is still a need for continued advocacy, improved enforcement of legal protections, and greater public education on the issue. Ensuring that victims receive timely and effective support, addressing systemic barriers to justice, and fostering a culture of openness and accountability are critical steps in the ongoing effort to confront and prevent child sexual abuse in Nigeria.
The Culture of Silence Surrounding Child Sexual Abuse in Nigeria
Nigeria's culture of silence around child sexual abuse is a complex and deeply ingrained phenomenon that perpetuates the problem. At its core, this culture is rooted in societal norms, traditions, and power dynamics that prioritize maintaining the status quo over protecting vulnerable individuals. One of the most damaging aspects of this culture is the tendency to blame and stigmatize victims. Survivors of sexual abuse are often shamed, ostracized. This not only silences them but also makes it increasingly difficult for them to seek help or report the abuse. The fear of being judged, rejected, or ostracized by family, friends, and community is overwhelming, leaving many victims to suffer in silence
The pressure to maintain family honour also plays a significant role in perpetuating the culture of silence. Reporting abuse can bring shame to families, leading to pressure to keep it hidden. This pressure can come from family members, community leaders, or even religious authorities. The fear of tarnishing the family's reputation or bringing shame to their loved ones keeps many victims silent.
Additionally, Nigeria's societal norms prioritize respect for authority, which can make it difficult for victims to speak out against perpetrators in positions of power. This can include teachers, religious leaders, or other figures of authority. Victims may feel intimidated or powerless to report abuse, fearing retaliation or consequences.
The culture of silence and fear surrounding cases of abuse, especially when perpetrators hold positions of power and influence, often discourages victims from speaking out against the abusers. Proving sexual offences in court is a daunting task that often discourages victims from coming forward, as the burden of proof heavily lies on the prosecution, which can be re-traumatizing during cross-examination and further complicates the pursuit of justice.
A Psychologist, Reverend Father Francis Afolabi, warned that the culture of silence can lead to low self-esteem, excessive self-consciousness, and traumatization, causing individuals to become toxic parents, teachers, and leaders. He lamented that the fear of stigmatization and labelling leads people to keep quiet about their traumas, difficulties, and challenges, ultimately causing them to internalize their pain and become maladjusted.
“As a result, they become overly self-conscious, constantly worried about what others say or do around them. They tend to link every experience to their past trauma, even if it’s not relevant because they haven’t spoken up and are bottling up their emotions. This ultimately leads to traumatization, causing them to feel stuck and unable to move on. They feel insulted, used, and objectified, leading to withdrawal from reality. Unfortunately, this behavior will perpetuate, and they will become toxic parents in the future, passing on their unresolved pain and trauma to the next generation. Their unresolved experiences have taken hold of their personality, and they fail to seek help even when it’s available.”
How can Nigeria Effectively Confront and Prevent Child Sexual Abuse?
Nigeria is taking steps to support victims of sexual violence, with the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Response Team (DSVRT) leading efforts. In Kaduna State, a law mandates the castration of those convicted of raping minors under 14. 34 states and the Federal Capital Territory have domesticated the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act 2015 to curb violence. process ensures dignity and respect for all individuals. Notable convictions in high-profile cases highlight the importance of persistent legal efforts. For instance, Nollywood actor Baba Ijesha was convicted of sexually assaulting a minor, and a former supervisor at Chrisland School in Lagos was sentenced for sexually abusing a minor.
Addressing the issue requires systemic changes that not only provide justice for victims but also create a culture of prevention and protection. Here's a detailed exploration of how Nigeria can tackle this serious issue:
1. Strengthening Legal Frameworks and Law Enforcement
Nigeria has already made progress by passing the Child Rights Act of 2003, which provides a legal framework for protecting children from abuse, including sexual abuse. However, gaps in enforcement and awareness about these laws still exist. The government needs to:
a. Enhance Enforcement: Law enforcement agencies must be trained to handle cases of child sexual abuse with sensitivity and professionalism. Police officers, social workers, and legal personnel need better training to identify, investigate, and prosecute offenders efficiently. Specialized units focused on child protection within law enforcement agencies would improve case management and reduce delays in the judicial process.
b. Expand Legal Coverage Nationwide: Not all Nigerian states have fully adopted or implemented the Child Rights Act. Ensuring nationwide adoption and implementation of the Act, along with other laws like the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP), is crucial. Stronger implementation would provide uniform protection across all regions, especially in rural areas where enforcement is often weaker.
c. Support Victim-Centred Legal Reforms: Laws should be amended to ensure that victims of child sexual abuse can seek justice without fear of further harm or stigmatization. The legal system must prioritize the safety and privacy of child victims during court proceedings, such as through in-camera trials (closed sessions), to prevent traumatization.
2. Education and Public Awareness Campaigns
Widespread ignorance and cultural taboos surrounding child sexual abuse hinder prevention and reporting. Public awareness campaigns must be intensified to educate both adults and children about the dangers of abuse, how to recognize it, and where to seek help. Key steps include:
a. Comprehensive School Programs: Introducing child protection and sex education programs in schools can empower children to understand their rights and recognize inappropriate behavior. Schools should provide age-appropriate education on body autonomy, consent, and how to report abuse without fear of judgment.
b. Community Awareness: Engaging traditional and religious leaders in rural and urban communities can help break the silence around child sexual abuse. Community leaders often hold significant influence, and their involvement can help shift cultural attitudes that tolerate or overlook abuse.
c. Parental Education: Many parents lack the knowledge or tools to protect their children from sexual abuse. Educational programs should be created for parents to teach them how to talk to their children about sexual abuse, recognize warning signs, and seek help when needed.
3. Support Services for Victims
Addressing the needs of survivors of child sexual abuse is critical for healing and justice. Nigeria needs to ensure that survivors have access to essential support services, including:
a. Counselling and Psychological Support: Victims of child sexual abuse often suffer from long-term emotional and psychological trauma. Providing accessible, trauma-informed counselling services through both public health systems and NGOs is vital for the rehabilitation of victims. Establishing helplines, support groups, and mental health programs that specialize in abuse recovery can aid in the healing process.
b. Medical Assistance: Immediate access to medical care, including forensic examinations, post-trauma care, and treatment for sexually transmitted infections, is crucial for victims. Free and confidential medical services for child victims should be made widely available, particularly in rural areas where access to healthcare is limited.
c. Safe Spaces and Shelters: In cases where children face abuse in their homes or communities, there should be shelters and safe spaces where they can seek refuge. These centres must be well-equipped with trained personnel to care for vulnerable children, providing safety, counselling, and legal guidance.
4. Community Involvement and Grassroots Mobilization
Community-based efforts play a vital role in preventing and addressing child sexual abuse, especially in areas where law enforcement may be inadequate. Grassroots mobilization can help create safe environments for children:
a. Establishing Community Child Protection Networks: Community organizations and local child protection committees can help identify cases of abuse and intervene before the situation worsens. Training local leaders and volunteers to serve as child advocates can enhance vigilance at the grassroots level.
b. Engaging Faith-Based Organizations: In Nigeria, religious institutions have a powerful influence on communities. By involving churches, mosques, and other faith-based organizations in the fight against child sexual abuse, religious leaders can help educate congregants, encourage reporting, and support victims.
c. Use of technology
Technology provides new chances for prevention and intervention. While the digital world has increased some threats for children, it can also be used for protection.
a. Platforms that enable anonymous reporting: Creating online forums where people can anonymously report child sexual abuse might boost reporting rates, especially when victims or witnesses are afraid of retaliation. These platforms should be incorporated into existing social welfare systems to allow for faster reaction times.
b. Monitoring Online Abuse: To combat online exploitation and abuse, particularly through social media, Nigeria's digital surveillance systems must be strengthened to detect, investigate, and convict perpetrators. Partnerships with international cybercrime agencies could assist Nigerian authorities in dealing with this rising issue.
c. Educational Apps and Resources: Technology can also be used to educate children and parents about abuse prevention through apps, digital tools, and social media campaigns. Digital platforms can spread awareness quickly and reach remote areas where physical campaigns might be difficult to execute.
5. International Cooperation and Support
Nigeria can benefit from international cooperation in tackling child sexual abuse, as this is a global issue:
a. Partnering with international organizations such as UNICEF, Save the Children, and the World Health Organization can provide valuable resources and expertise to Nigerian initiatives. These organizations frequently have successful frameworks for addressing child abuse and can assist local initiatives in scaling up.
b. Global Best Practices: Adopting effective ideas from other nations will help Nigeria improve its measures against child sexual abuse. Learning from countries that have successfully reduced abuse rates can provide important insights into developing culturally relevant remedies.
Conclusion
Breaking the silence surrounding child sexual abuse is essential for the safety and well-being of children. By fostering trust, educating children about boundaries, creating safe spaces for open dialogue, and responding appropriately to signs of abuse, we can encourage children to speak up. Every effort counts in ensuring that abuse is reported early and that children receive the support they need to heal and move forward.
REFERENCES
1. Chigoziem E. Onugha, “Child Abuse/Molestation in Nigeria” https://www.lawyersalertng.org/post/child-abuse-molestation-in-nigeria accessed September 11, 2024
2. Fayomi M, Ali P, Ellis K (2023) Child Sexual Abuse in Nigeria: A Systematic Review. JSM Sexual Med 7(4): 1119 https://www.jscimedcentral.com/jounal-article-info/JSM-Sexual-Medicine/Child-Sexual-Abuse-in-Nigeria:-A-Systematic-Review-11475# accessed September 12, 2024
3. Njideka Alibe, “Preventing Child Sexual Abuse” (Punch 2024) https://punchng.com/preventing-child-sexual-abuse/ Accessed September 15, 2024
4. Buna Juliets, “Culture Of Silence: How Fear Obstructs Justice for Survivors of Sexual Abuse in Ondo School” https://awimnews.com/culture-of-silence-how-fear-obstructs-justice-for-survivors-of-sexual-abuse-in-ondo-school/ accessed September 15, 2024
5. Olaitan O. Olusegun Amos A. Idowu, “Child Abuse In Nigeria: Dimension, Reasons For Its Persistence And Probable” Child and Family Law Journal https://lawpublications.barry.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1015&context=cflj accessed September 15, 2024.
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