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Summary
Naija Feminist Media’s X-Space discussion on IWD 2025 highlighted rape culture in Nigeria and proposed legal reforms, education, media accountability, and activism to combat gender-based violence.
In commemoration of International Women’s Day (IWD) on March 8, 2025, Naija Feminist Media (NFM) hosted an X-Space discussion titled Deconstructing Rape Culture in Nigeria’s Political Climate. The conversation, which drew over 100 participants, explored how rape culture is embedded in Nigeria’s political and social systems, reinforcing the acceptance of sexual violence and discouraging survivors from speaking out.
This conversation was particularly relevant in light of the recent case involving Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, a legislator representing the Kogi constituency, who accused Senate President Akpabio of sexual harassment. Instead of addressing her claims with fairness, the Senate leadership and its supporters shunned her and ultimately suspended her from the Senate for six months without pay. This incident reveals how victim-blaming and institutionalised misogyny continue to shape Nigeria’s political landscape.
While the X-Space discussion shed light on the many challenges women face, it also provided actionable solutions for addressing rape culture and promoting gender justice.
- Legal and Policy Reforms
Halima Yaya suggested that the Nigerian government align its laws with international human rights standards to protect women from gender-based violence. She emphasised the need to enforce legal consequences against perpetrators, including lawmakers and influential figures who enable rape culture. Additionally, she advocated for specialised training for judges, lawyers, and law enforcement officers to ensure a survivor-centered approach in handling cases of sexual harassment and assault.
- Comprehensive Sexual Education
Halima also emphasised the urgent need for comprehensive sexual education. She stressed that schools should educate students on consent and bodily autonomy while community-based campaigns extend awareness beyond digital platforms. This approach ensures that women without online access receive crucial information about their rights and personal safety.
- Media Accountability and Ethical Journalism
Kosisochukwu Ani emphasised the need for media practitioners to challenge harmful narratives by ensuring accurate representation of survivors’ stories. She advocated for the promotion of feminist literature and media content to help reshape public perception. This, she noted, is crucial for dismantling systemic misogyny and advancing gender justice.
- Women’s Political Representation and Activism
Expanding women’s presence in governance and decision-making roles will lead to more effective policies addressing gender-based violence. Strengthening alliances among women’s rights organisations will enhance advocacy efforts. A collective approach is crucial for challenging gender injustice and driving meaningful systemic change.
- Mobilising Collective Action
Favour Eboatu emphasised the importance of empowering women to actively participate in feminist movements, protests, and advocacy campaigns to drive systemic change. She highlighted the role of digital platforms in amplifying these efforts through hashtags like #CollectiveActionNow and #WomensMonth, stressing that online activism is crucial for raising awareness and mobilising widespread support. She also underscored the importance of unity among women and feminist organisations, advocating for collective efforts, team-building, coalitions, networking, and collaborations to strengthen the movement.
The X-Space discussion ended with a strong call to action, urging government officials, civil society organisations, media practitioners, and individuals to take concrete steps in dismantling rape culture. Naija Feminist Media reaffirmed its commitment to continuing these conversations beyond IWD 2025 through media literacy programs, advocacy campaigns, and direct action to support survivors and challenge harmful structures.
