…Calls for the Domestication of the Maputo Protocol

By Favour Ulebor, Abuja

A women’s rights advocacy group has called on the Federal Government and key stakeholders to take urgent steps to eradicate sexual harassment, particularly in workplaces and political spaces. 

In a meeting with Vanguard, weekend,  the Executive Director of BAOBAB for Women’s Human Rights, Yeye Bunmi Dipo-Salami, also emphasized the need for Nigeria to domesticate the Maputo Protocol, a legal framework that strengthens protections for women’s rights across Africa.

The renewed call follows allegations by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment during a recent interview on Arise News. 

She claimed that her refusal to yield to his advances led to continued intimidation and hostility within the Senate.

Speaking on the issue, Dipo-Salami, stressed that sexual harassment remains a pervasive problem affecting women in different spheres, yet most cases go unreported due to fear of victimization.

“I wasn’t shocked when I heard the recent allegations because sexual harassment happens to women at all levels— in schools, workplaces, and even in the so-called hallowed chambers where laws are made to protect all Nigerians,” she said.

Dipo-Salami pointed out that many female politicians endure harassment in silence to avoid political backlash or career stagnation.

She urged political parties and institutions to establish clear anti-sexual harassment policies to hold perpetrators accountable and protect women from abuse and intimidation.

Dipo-Salami also criticized Nigeria’s failure to domesticate the Maputo Protocol, which provides a comprehensive legal framework for advancing women’s rights in Africa.

“That protocol covers everything about women’s rights. Nigeria ratified it in 2004—21 years ago—but we have not domesticated it. Of what use is a law you cannot enforce?” she questioned.

She further urged civil society organizations, policymakers, and legal practitioners to push for the full implementation of policies that would provide better legal protection and redress for women facing harassment.

A legal expert and founder of The Surge Youth Advocacy Group, Boma Lillian Braide, highlighted the legal challenges victims face in seeking justice for sexual harassment.

“She can file a formal complaint with the National Assembly’s Ethics Committee or the Nigerian Police Force. She may also seek a court order for protection or compensation,” Braide explained.

However, she acknowledged that proving such cases remains difficult.

“The onus is on the victim to provide concrete evidence. Unfortunately, we live in a society where women who speak up are often silenced, mocked, or dismissed, even by fellow women,” she added.

Braide urged the government and relevant institutions to strengthen enforcement mechanisms and ensure a safer environment for women across all sectors.