Communal Conflict and HIV/AIDS in Nigeria

Abstract

This paper examines the impact of conflict situation in the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) including HIV/AIDS using Ife/Modakeke crisis as a case study. Anti-social behaviours, such as rape, are common in times of conflict yet knowledge is limited about the relationship between this and the prevalence of STDs including HIV/AIDS in Nigeria, a country plagued by pockets of communal conflicts. Hospital data, key informant interviews and case study approaches were main methods of data collection.. Twenty key informants were interviewed and five case studies were conducted. Data revealed higher prevalence of STDs (2.2% compare with 1.3% in 1994 and 1998 respectively) during the conflict compared with the period of peace preceding it. Informants were of the opinion that high prevalence of STDs was due to the crisis. STDs were more prevalent among unmarried and young girls than married women. Limited access to health care services was reported during the crisis. Thus this suggests increased maternal morbidity and mortality in times of conflict. Hence, special attention should be given to conflict ridden zones in the prevention of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) including HIV.

African Journal for the Psychological Study of Social Issues Vol.7(2) 2004: 140-154