Sex workers decry rising violence, demand rights protection

The Nigeria Sex Workers Association has appealed to the authorities of law enforcement agencies to protect its members nationwide from harassment and abuse.

NSWA made the appeal in a statement by its National Coordinator, Amaka Enemo, made available to the News Agency of Nigeria on Tuesday in Lagos.

Enemo said that recent reports indicate a disturbing rise in physical assaults, harassment, and extortion of sex workers by both clients and law enforcement officials.

She urged law enforcement agencies to recognise the humanity of sex workers and protect them from violence and abuse.

Enemo said that sex workers were not criminals but individuals with rights, who deserved the protection of security agencies.

According to her, their absolute safety and well-being contribute to the overall health of communities and help to reduce the spread of sexually transmitted infections, including HIV.

“Despite the critical role that sex workers play in the economy and society, they continue to be subjected to systematic violence, discrimination, and stigmatisation.

“This violence not only endangers the lives of sex workers but also undermines their rights and dignity as human beings.

“We deserve to work in safety and to live free from fear. It is time for our voices to be heard and for our rights to be respected,” she said.

The association’s coordinator further urged law enforcement agencies to take prompt measures that would ensure their personnel carried out their duties professionally.

She listed such measures to include comprehensive training for officials, creating safe reporting mechanisms, and holding personnel accountable for acts of violence or discrimination against sex workers.

Others are launching public awareness campaigns to combat stigma and discrimination against sex workers, ensuring that perpetrators are prosecuted and that victims receive justice.

Enemo said that the association had resolved to advocate for the rights and safety of sex workers across the nation.

She urged stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and the public, to work with the association to fight the injustice and indignity meted out to its members.