Sexual Assault in Nigeria: Why the Church Must Protect Survivors and Demand Accountability
Sexual assault is often treated as a subject to whisper about, yet the numbers show a serious crisis. Global health estimates indicate that about one in three women experiences physical or sexual violence in her lifetime. Nigerian crime data cited in this discussion also points to widespread sexual offences and major under-reporting. Many survivors know the offender, and abuse can happen in homes, schools and other familiar spaces. These are not just figures. They are daughters, sons, sisters, brothers and friends whose safety, dignity and future have been harmed. From a Christian perspective, sexual assault is never the survivor's fault. It is a deliberate abuse of power and a violation of another person's dignity. The Church must teach responsibility, consent, self-control and respect for every person. It must also stop shaming survivors, provide safe support and refuse to cover up abuse. Parents should raise sons to take responsibility and honour others, while supporting daughters and sons to speak up when they are unsafe. Survivors deserve trusted community, professional help and justice. Purity should never be used to blame victims; it should mean treating every person as a soul to honour.
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