WHO defines child sexual abuse as the involvement of a child in a sexual activity he/she doesn’t fully comprehend; is unable to give informed consent to; or for which the child is not developmentally prepared for. Rape is a form of child sexual abuse.
In a 2008 report by NDHS, 2.5% of women aged 15 - 45 had experienced sexual violence before the age of 10. In 2013, the most recent report showed this percentage had risen to 7%. Aditionally, the CLEEN Foundation‘s 2013 survey reported a 2% rise in reported cases of child sexual abuse, from 2011 to 2013, and by 2013, more people saw rape culture as prevalent as opposed to 2011 (from 1.8% to 10%).
As at 2014, Women At Risk International Foundation (WARIF) reported that one in four females in Nigeria experience sexual violence in childhood.
So the question is, is child sexual abuse and rape increasing in Nigeria?
Even though statistics seem to support this assertion, there is no authoritative data to determine how true or false it is. Even data easily accessible seems to be influenced whether there is an actual rise in cases of child sexual abuse/rape, or more victims are coming forward.
Whatever the truth is, the perception of rape culture among Nigerians has certainly changed. From a position of feigning ignorance to a real sense of outrage and disgust, it seems that more ‘noise’ is now being made about this issue.
Yes, most surveys portray an increase in prevalence but as long as accurate data collection and comprehensive scientific surveys aren’t carried out (coupled with the mistrust of authorities, lack of common understanding of the law, and the stigma of reporting), the true state of things may be elusive.
So, where do we start?