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Summary
Timi Agbaje faces backlash for a video discussing marital rape laws, sparking outrage over claims that Nigerian law does not recognise marital rape.
A Nigerian lawyer/content creator, Timi Agbaje has come under heavy criticism for a video he posted on X on February 5, with the caption, “Can a man rape his wife in Nigeria? What does the law say?”
The video, which has amassed 1.5 million views, 3.8k likes, and 2.2k reposts, features a narration of a fictional couple, Larry and Bimbo, who are traditionally married. In the story, Larry expresses his desire to consummate the marriage, but Bimbo insists on waiting until after their church wedding. However, Larry disregards her refusal and proceeds to have intercourse with her against her will. The aftermath sees Bimbo angered and wanting to sue Larry for rape.
In the video, the creator references Section 6 of the Criminal Code, which he claims categorically states that unlawful carnal knowledge cannot occur between a man and his wife, implying that marital rape does not legally exist in Nigeria under this law.
The video has sparked outrage, with many women accusing the creator of encouraging harmful narratives that trivialise sexual violence against women. They also argue that his delivery appeared enthusiastic in a way that emboldened men to believe they can force their wives into sex without consequences.
One X user, @withmey_, condemned the video, stating:
“What exactly is the purpose of this video? To embolden the pricks that can’t take no for an answer?? Make them feel they can rape their wives, and there’s nothing anyone can do? I hate you people.”
Another user, @ROYGBIV_, criticised the creator, saying:
“Foolish man has set up a ring light to discuss rubbish! Why am I not surprised? Of all the topics in the world, you go on to put a stamp of approval on one that already plagues the nation? A BIG FOOL!”
@BaeMaky questioned the ethical implications of the argument presented:
“So if a husband forces himself on his wife, and she’s crying, resisting, and traumatised…you’re saying that’s okay just because they’re married?”
Others pointed out the deeper implications of normalising forced intercourse within marriage. @ebereosuagwu remarked:
“Why are you so happy about this? What kind of crazy example is this? If a man cannot wait for a few days to consummate the marriage— is he a man or a boy? Sex is not to be taken; it’s a shared act.”
Marital rape refers to non-consensual sexual acts committed by a husband against his wife. While it is recognised as a crime in many countries, Nigerian law remains ambiguous. In contrast, in the United States, between 10% and 14% of married women report being raped by their spouses, and approximately 34% of women report having unwanted sex due to marital obligations.
The debate over marital rape laws in Nigeria continues to be a contentious issue, showing that there is a need to push for legal reforms to recognise and criminalise non-consensual sex within marriage.
