Inequality, Sexual Exploitation and the Risk of Contacting HIV/AIDS: The Need for Gender Protection Practice and Enforcement in Nigeria

Abstract

Some feminist studies on women reveal that male supremacy over women and
consequent sexual exploitation has continued for centuries due to many factors, which include patriarchal idea that obscures the history of women. This is an idea that affects women's potentials by limiting them mainly to reproductive and nurturing roles. There are various cultural practices that may be regarded as deliberate sexual violence and exploitation against women, which are not classified as violence like and other criminal acts such as rape. Nigerian society, like most patriarchal societies continues to ignore and refused to address properly, these important issues that hinges on overall development of the society. These practices have existed since considerable age long, with various health implications in the society. Against this background, this paper focuses on examining the interface between gender inequality, sexual violence practices and the corresponding high
risk of contracting HIV/AIDS. Specific issues discussed in the paper are, overview of Gender inequality and patriarchy; plethora of sexual violence against women; sexual violence and the risk of HIV/AIDS in Nigeria; and various strategies for mitigating the challenges of sexual violence on HIV/AIDS. The paper also highlighted the option of domesticating gender protection in the laws of Nigeria. In conclusion, there is a strong conviction that promoting a culture of rights and gender equality; responsibility and choice in relation to HIV/AIDS can end women's over-whelming, biological, social and economic susceptibility to HIV
and affirm the right of all people to life and dignity.

LWATI: A Journal of Contemporary Research Vol. 5 2008: pp. 227-244