The Nigerian Sex Workers’ Union has called for an end to the persistent harassment and stigmatization faced by its members across the country. In a public statement, the union highlighted the growing challenges sex workers encounter, ranging from physical violence and police harassment to social exclusion and lack of access to healthcare services. The union’s leadership has stressed that their demands are rooted in the need for dignity, respect, and recognition of sex work as a legitimate occupation, urging authorities to adopt a more humane approach to addressing issues related to their profession.
Sex work remains a contentious issue in Nigeria, a country with deep-seated cultural and religious values that often clash with the realities of those who engage in it. Despite its illegality in most parts of the country, sex work continues to thrive, driven by socio-economic factors such as poverty, unemployment, and lack of education. Many individuals, particularly women, turn to sex work as a last resort to support themselves and their families.
However, the legal and social framework in Nigeria often criminalizes and marginalizes sex workers, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation and abuse. Police raids on brothels and street arrests are common, with many sex workers reporting instances of physical assault, extortion, and even sexual violence at the hands of law enforcement officers. These actions not only violate their human rights but also push them further into the shadows, making it difficult for them to seek justice or access essential services.
The Nigerian Sex Workers’ Union has emphasized that this cycle of harassment and abuse must end. The union advocates for the decriminalization of sex work, arguing that such a move would help protect workers’ rights, improve their working conditions, and allow them to operate within a regulated framework. Decriminalization, they contend, would also reduce the stigma associated with the profession, enabling sex workers to access healthcare, legal aid, and social support without fear of discrimination.
One of the key issues raised by the union is the urgent need for better healthcare services tailored to the needs of sex workers. Many of them face significant health risks, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV/AIDS, and mental health challenges. However, stigma and fear of judgment often deter them from seeking medical attention. The union is calling on government agencies and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to provide accessible, non-judgmental healthcare services and launch public awareness campaigns aimed at reducing stigma and promoting the health and well-being of sex workers.
In addition to healthcare, the union has highlighted the importance of economic empowerment programs. Many sex workers express a desire to transition to other forms of employment but face barriers such as lack of education, vocational skills, and financial support. The union is advocating for the establishment of training programs and microfinance initiatives that would enable sex workers to explore alternative livelihoods and achieve financial independence.
The call for dignity and respect extends beyond legal and economic issues to the broader societal perception of sex work. The union has urged Nigerians to adopt a more compassionate and understanding attitude toward sex workers, recognizing their humanity and the complex circumstances that lead them to this line of work. They argue that reducing stigma is crucial to fostering a more inclusive society where all individuals, regardless of their profession, are treated with respect and empathy.
This movement for the rights and dignity of sex workers in Nigeria is part of a broader global conversation about the rights of marginalized and vulnerable populations. Countries such as New Zealand and parts of Australia have successfully decriminalized sex work, leading to improved safety, health outcomes, and social acceptance for workers. The Nigerian Sex Workers’ Union hopes to draw lessons from these international examples and work towards a future where their members can live and work without fear of harassment or violence.
In response to the union’s demands, human rights organizations and some civil society groups have expressed solidarity, calling on the Nigerian government to engage in dialogue with sex workers and consider reforms that prioritize their safety and well-being. While the road ahead remains challenging, the union’s advocacy marks a significant step toward changing the narrative around sex work in Nigeria and pushing for policies that uphold the rights and dignity of all citizens, regardless of their occupation.
