Aisha Buhari, the first lady of Nigeria, has reacted to the BBC Africa’s ‘Sex for Grades’ documentary released on Monday October 7th.While reacting to the shocking findings in the documentary, Mrs Buhari lamented that the issue of sexual harassment against women was not only unique to universities, but has become prevalent in other facets of the society which includes religious places. The first lady reacted to the documentary at the exclusive screening in Lagos last night.
Represented by Mrs Aisha Rimi, a lawyer, Mrs Buhari condemned sexual harassment against students, saying it was unacceptable on all levels.
“This simply has to change. It is no longer enough to sweep allegations under the carpet or force victims to withdraw their allegations, victimise or stigmatise them,” she said.
The first lady stressed that there are laws to protect victims of sexual harassment and abuse, but such laws cannot operate except victims speak out to get justice. She pledged to use her office to fight for the eradication of sexual abuse against women.