The Fight for Women’s Rights in Nigeria: The Impact and Challenges of the VAPP Law

By Bukola Taiwo

Women and social justice advocates in Nigeria have, through the years, tirelessly fought for the rights and protection of women through various means such as policy advocacy, policy implementation, and community sensitization, among others. Their efforts have been instrumental in bringing about significant legislative changes aimed at safeguarding the rights of women and vulnerable groups. One of the most notable achievements of their resilience and dedication is the passage of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law in 2015. This landmark legislation was enacted after 14 years of persistent advocacy and negotiations with different legislative assemblies.

The VAPP Law is a comprehensive legal framework that addresses various forms of violence against individuals. It provides detailed definitions of different types of violence, including physical, emotional, and sexual violence, and prescribes stringent sanctions for perpetrators. The law criminalizes acts such as rape, domestic violence, and other forms of abuse, ensuring that offenders are held accountable for their actions. The VAPP Law is notable for its gender-neutral and rights-based approach, which emphasizes the protection of all individuals, regardless of gender. As a result, over 30 states in Nigeria have domesticated this law, reflecting its widespread acceptance and implementation across the country.

Despite the rise in sexual and violent crimes in Nigeria today, which underscores the urgent need for robust legal protections, the legislature’s commitment to the comprehensive implementation of the VAPP Law appears to be waning. Contrary to expectations, there has been a motion to repeal the VAPP Law, spearheaded by Senator Jubril Isah of Kogi East. This motion has already passed the second reading with alarming speed. It is worth noting that in 2022, the same Senator Jubril Isah sponsored a similar bill to repeal the VAPP Law, although it did not succeed at that time.

Senator Jibrin’s push to repeal the VAPP Law of 2015 is based on his assertion that the law is “gender-biased.” This claim has sparked significant controversy and concern among advocates for women’s rights and social justice. The senator’s stance is seen by many as a blatant disregard for the safety and protection of women and vulnerable groups. Critics argue that his efforts to repeal the law undermine the hard-won protections that have been put in place to safeguard victims of violence, particularly women. The dismissal of the law’s intent to protect victims from violence, under the guise of promoting neutrality, is perceived as an attempt to roll back critical legal safeguards that have been established through years of advocacy and struggle.

The potential repeal of the VAPP Law poses a significant threat to the progress that has been made in addressing violence against individuals in Nigeria. It is imperative for advocates, policymakers, and the general public to remain vigilant and continue to push for the full implementation and enforcement of the VAPP Law. Ensuring that this crucial legislation remains in place is essential for protecting the rights and safety of all individuals, particularly women and vulnerable groups, who are most at risk of violence and abuse.