- Sex workers called for protection and safety of members across Nigeria amid rising violence
- The association demanded law enforcement training, accountability, and public awareness campaigns to combat stigma
- TheRadar compiled some of the public reactions following the sex workers’ call
The Nigeria Sex Workers Association (NSWA) has sparked widespread reactions after urging law enforcement agencies to safeguard its members from harassment, violence, and abuse across the country.
In a statement released on Tuesday, December 3 in Lagos State, National Coordinator Amaka Enemo highlighted a troubling surge in physical assaults, harassment, and extortion directed at sex workers by both clients and law enforcement officials.
NSWA calls for protection, safety of sex workers
“Recent reports indicate a disturbing rise in physical assaults, harassment and extortion of sex workers by both clients and law enforcement officials,” Enemo stated.
The National Coordinator emphasised the need for authorities to acknowledge the humanity of sex workers, emphasising their right to safety and protection.
She also pointed out the important role sex workers play in public health by helping to reduce the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV.
The association called for comprehensive training for law enforcement officers, the establishment of secure reporting channels, and accountability for any acts of discrimination or violence.
“Sex workers are not criminals but individuals with rights, who deserve the protection of security agencies.
“Despite the critical role that sex workers play in the economy and society, they continue to be subjected to systematic violence, discrimination and stigmatisation,” Enemo stated.
Speaking further, she said, “Public awareness campaigns to combat stigma and ensuring justice for victims are crucial steps.”
The NSWA reiterated its commitment to advocating for the safety and rights of its members and urged government agencies, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and the public to support the fight against injustices faced by sex workers.
Public reacts to NSWA call
The association's call has since generated reactions from the public. TheRadar compiled some of the responses from netizens below:
“give them ID card and let them pay taxes......dignity in labor for the oldest known profession,” Tango Tango stated.
“Who is the chairman of the association i wan see am,” Piroskey stated.
“An end to harassment and a demand for dignity is normal and responsible,” Joe is here to explain reacted.
“Bro criminals hide out is ashawo quarters criminals who are terrorizing Nigeria lodge their with them in the afternoon they swing into action in the night , if commercial sex workers are given freedom the. It will turn a bigger criminal den,” Dbanks added.
“LoL, wonders of the century,” OgechukwuIgboa2 reacted.
“This is Nigeria not Belgium your dignity is not needed here you clowns 🤡,” Big Alex stated.
“Belgium don set the record straight for all this Mumu people,anyway I Dey patronize una well well,I be customer and I no fit condemn una service,God bless all Ashawo’s,” Charlito miletus stated.
“Where is the shame ? Poverty has wiped off every sense of dignity from majority of our women. May God help us from this societal decay,” Para Day added.
Over 61,000 people live with HIV/AIDS in Nigeria’s capital city alone - Report
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that the Federal Capital Territory Administration disclosed that no fewer than 61,384 people living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus/ Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) have been placed on treatment.
According to the report, FCT, with an estimated population of 6.95 million, had an HIV prevalence rate of 1.4 per cent, marginally above the national rate of 1.3 per cent.