The Epidemiology of Sexual Violence in Nigeria

Abstract

This paper investigated the epidemiology of sexual violence in Nigeria. Sexual violence has been considered as an “imposed sexual act with physical force” caused by lack of consideration of other’s right. In Nigeria, violence against women is becoming an increasingly recognized pandemic issue necessitating eradication and elimination. It occurs in various forms with resultant physical, sexual or psychological consequences. However, there is still denial and paucity of literature about the magnitude and pattern of this problem in Nigeria. Sexual violence against children and women brings with it long-term, both psychiatrically and socially. Apart from sexual gratification itself, sexual violence against women in Nigeria is a result of unequal power equations both real and perceived between men and women and is strongly influenced by cultural factors and values. The findings and results of this paper will be helpful to girls and women terms governing sexual violence and how to remain safe from been violated. Therefore, this paper systematically reviewed some related literature on sexual violence, contexts of sexual violence and examined it forms, the risk factors associated with sexual violence and the way out of sexual violence.