Women And Girls Experience Different Forms Of S3xual Abuse

The Minister of Women Affairs, Sen Pauline Tallen, has said 30 per cent of women and girls between the ages of 15-49 experience different forms of s3xual abuse.

Tallen said this today in Abuja, at a panel discussion to commemorate the International Day of the Midwife 2021, and the Orange World Campaign Flag-off.

The theme of the event was, “Access to Services For GBV Survivors in Nigeria: A Call to Action.”

Tallen attributed the rising number of s3xual abuse, especially in the North East, to prevailing factors like child marriage and terrorism.

The minister, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mrs. Anthonia Ekpa, said Nigeria experienced different forms of sexual abuse, and that the patriarchal nature of the society, NAN reports.

“The situation has further worsened as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has been described as a shadow pandemic.

“The pandemic has seen a surge on reports of gender-based violence cases nationwide, which has led to the diversion of priorities and resources to address these issues.

“There is continuous advocacy and ongoing amendments to existing policies to accommodate best practices in combating this pandemic,” she explained.

Tallen noted that a recent study commissioned by her Ministry and the United Nations (UN) partners in Nigeria, with support from the Norwegian government, found out that 28 per cent of Nigerians aged 25-29 had experienced some form of physical violence since age 15.

“The study also reports that 15 per cent of women experienced physical violence, and the level of exposure to the risk of violence varied based on marital status.

“It said 44 per cent of divorced, separated or widowed women reported experiencing violence since age 15, while 25 per cent of married women or those living with their spouses have experienced violence,” she said.