The Nigeria Sex Workers Association, NSWA, has appealed to security operatives in the country to stop harassing and brutalizing its members. This is even as the association called on the authorities of law enforcement agencies to protect its members nationwide.
The appeal was contained in a statement by its National Coordinator, Amaka Enemo, cited by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday.
Enemo stated that the appeal has become necessary following recent reports of disturbing rise in physical assaults, harassment and extortion of sex workers by both clients and law enforcement officials across the country.
Enemo, therefore, tasked the law enforcement agencies to recognize the humanity of sex workers. She urged them to protect the sex workers from violence and abuse while discharging their duties.
The National Coordinator noted 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 this help to reduce the spread of sexually transmitted infections, including HIV in the society.
She said, “Despite the critical role that sex workers play in the economy and society, they continue to be subjected to systematic violence, discrimination and stigmatization.
“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.”
Enemo 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 and creation of safe reporting mechanisms. Holding personnel accountable for acts of violence or discrimination against sex workers.
Other areas she listed are launching public awareness campaigns to combat stigma and discrimination against sex workers. And ensuring that perpetrators are prosecuted, and their victims receive justice.
The National Coordinator, therefore, 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.
source: Daily Post
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