The Role of Civil Society in Preventing and Countering Sexual Violence in Nigeria

Abstract

Sexual violence is becoming rampant and pervasive in Nigeria particularly in the last years when more incidences are reported. The phenomenon of rape, assault on women, and other types of sexual abuse are currently a social problem in the country and the country's responses and policymaking appear to be ineffective in taming the monster. This study examined specifically the role of Civil Society in the prevention and countering of sexual abuse in Nigeria. The subject matter of sexual abuse has become relevant in contemporary Nigerian society owing to the cultural, economic, political, and social implications of the act. This study gathered data from documented sources and media reports including books, article journals, reports, and internet sources. The data collected were discussed and interpreted using content analysis where big collected data were simplified in themes and sub-themes for an easy illustration. The study discovered that the Civil Society in Nigeria has been active in devising measures and procedures for preventing and countering sexual abuse through collaboration with public officials, relevant international agencies, victims and their families, and other local supporting agencies. The study recommends among several others that the Civil Society should broaden its activities to have integrated religious, traditional, and security institutions in awareness creation for safety measurement, and proactive strategies towards countering and sanctioning the culprits.