To track and prosecute perpetrators of sexual abuse, particularly in war zones, a group called Christian Women for Excellence and Empowerment in Nigerian Society (CWEENS) has asked for the establishment of a centralized database.
Sexual violence is a humanitarian catastrophe that requires immediate national action, according to the group.
Prof. Oluwafunmilayo Para-Mallam, the National Coordinator of CWEENS, made this revelation at a celebration of the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflicts in Jos, the capital of Plateau State.
“Internally displaced women, young girls, and people with disabilities are among the victims of sexual violence, which has turned into a weapon of war,” she said.
“The crisis has extended beyond rape to include physical, emotional, and socio-economic abuse driven by systemic patriarchy and worsening insecurity.”
Para-Mallam, a gender advocate, maintained that, “The survivors of sexual abuse suffer lasting psychological scars including depression, suicidal thoughts, and societal rejection.
“Many victims face double tragedy when families disown them, and husbands divorce wives raped during captivity, leaving them re-traumatised and unsupported,” Para-Mallam said.
According to her, data from recent studies show that 95 percent of victims are female, especially disabled women who are at greater risk.
95 percent of victims are women, particularly disabled women who are more vulnerable, according to data from recent research, she said.
Surprisingly, she said, 82.3 percent of the offenders were people survivors knew, such as family members, neighbors, and instructors, demonstrating how violence remained rampant even in homes and schools.
According to Para-Mallam, women-led task forces and gender-responsive policing might be implemented in IDP camps as immediate measures to stop the threat.
She also recommended broad awareness campaigns to question patriarchal norms and financing for women’s agribusiness to lessen trafficking caused by poverty.
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