The Nigerian government’s plan to establish mobile courts to tackle sexual harassment demonstrates a recognition of the issue’s severity. However, this approach raises several concerns and questions:
Effectiveness of mobile courts: While mobile courts might increase accessibility, it’s unclear how they will effectively handle the complex nature of sexual harassment cases, which often require detailed investigation and evidence gathering.
Focus on punishment vs. prevention: The emphasis on prosecution suggests a reactive approach. More attention should be given to preventive measures, such as education and cultural change.
Scope of the problem: The article rightly acknowledges that the offence occurs at all educational levels and beyond. However, the proposed solutions seem to focus primarily on tertiary institutions, potentially neglecting other contexts.
Implementation challenges: Nigeria has a history of well-intentioned policies that falter in implementation. The article doesn’t address how these new measures will overcome existing systemic challenges in the justice system.
Privacy concerns: Mobile courts may raise issues of privacy and confidentiality for victims, potentially discouraging reporting.
Hotel collaboration: While the idea of working with hotels to prevent underage lodging is interesting, it’s a narrow approach that doesn’t address the broader societal issues underlying sexual harassment.
Policy implementation: The development of model anti-sexual harassment policies is positive, but as noted, implementation remains a critical challenge.
Gender bias: The article doesn’t discuss how these measures will address sexual harassment against all genders, potentially reinforcing stereotypes about victims and perpetrators.
Resource allocation: The creation of new courts and policies will require significant resources. It’s unclear how this will be funded and whether it’s the most efficient use of resources to combat sexual harassment.
Stakeholder engagement: While the article mentions stakeholder involvement, it’s not clear how comprehensive this engagement has been, particularly in terms of including victims’ voices.
While the government’s recognition of sexual harassment as a serious issue is commendable, the proposed solutions appear to be somewhat piecemeal and reactive. A more holistic approach that addresses root causes, changes societal attitudes and strengthens existing institutions might be more effective in the long term. Additionally, any new measures should be accompanied by clear implementation strategies, adequate funding, and mechanisms for monitoring and evaluation to ensure their effectiveness.
Reference
`Sexual harassment: FG to establish mobile courts to prosecute offenders published in Punch