BAOBAB boss, Yèyé Dipo Salami
An end to incessant cases of sexual harassments, particularly in tertiary institutions may be imminent as women’s rights groups in Nigeria announce the readiness of the Senate to pass the Anti-Sexual Harassment Bill.
The bill, which aims to prevent and punish sexual harassment in educational institutions and workplaces, has been hailed as a significant step forward in the fight against gender-based violence.
Its passage is a response to the growing concerns over sexual harassment in Nigeria, particularly in institutions of higher learning.
Women’s rights activists have been at the forefront of the campaign, pushing for legislation that protects women from harassment and ensures perpetrators are held accountable.
“This is a historic moment for Nigerian women,” said Yeye Bunmi Dipo-Salami, Executive Director of Baobab for Women’s Right.
“The passage of this bill sends a strong message that sexual harassment will no longer be tolerated in our society, ” she said
The Anti-Sexual Harassment Bill is expected to be signed into law by the President in the coming weeks.
Once enacted, it will provide a framework for reporting and investigating cases of sexual harassment, as well as penalties for perpetrators.
Women’s rights groups are now calling on the government to ensure effective implementation of the law, including providing resources for training and education programs.
“This is just the beginning,” said Dr. Adeyanju Temitope Peter, a lecturer at the University of Abuja. “We need to ensure that the law is enforced, and that women feel empowered to speak out against harassment.”
The passage of the Anti-Sexual Harassment Bill is a significant milestone in the fight against gender-based violence in Nigeria.
“Women’s rights groups will continue to push for greater protections and support for survivors of harassment,” Dipo Salami assures.
