A Visit Is Never a License to Rape
On this Day 7 of the #16DaysOfActivism Against Gender-Based Violence, the Comfort Empowerment and Advocacy Foundation (CEAF) amplifies its voice to address a critical issue: A visit is never a license to rape.
Rape is one of the most devastating forms of violence, rooted in power dynamics, entitlement, and the disregard for consent. Unfortunately, many survivors of sexual violence face not only the trauma of their experience but also a culture that blames and shames them. One pervasive misconception in society is the notion that a woman’s presence in a particular space, such as visiting someone’s home—implies consent. This myth is deeply harmful and must be dismantled.
At CEAF, we believe in fostering a culture of respect, accountability, and consent. Today, we call on all individuals, communities, and institutions to join us in challenging the harmful norms and practices that perpetuate sexual violence.
Rape Culture: A Deeply Rooted Problem
The idea that a visit can be misconstrued as consent is a byproduct of rape culture, which normalizes sexual violence and blames survivors instead of holding perpetrators accountable. In many cases, society’s response to rape reflects deep-seated gender biases, where victims are scrutinized for their behavior, clothing, or choices, while perpetrators are excused or ignored.
Key Elements of Rape Culture:
Victim-Blaming: Survivors are asked, “Why did you go there?” or “Why were you dressed like that?” rather than holding the rapist accountable.
Entitlement: Some individuals believe they have the right to someone’s body based on circumstances such as a visit, relationship, or perceived flirtation.
Lack of Consent Awareness: Many fail to understand that consent is explicit, enthusiastic, and can be withdrawn at any time.
This toxic culture silences survivors, discourages reporting, and perpetuates cycles of violence.
The Reality of Rape in Nigeria
Nigeria faces a serious challenge with sexual violence. According to UNICEF, 1 in 4 Nigerian girls experiences sexual violence before the age of 18. Many of these incidents occur in private spaces, such as homes, where survivors are made to feel unsafe.
Aisha’s Story
Aisha was a 19-year-old university student who visited a male friend to discuss an academic project. What started as an ordinary meeting ended in a nightmare when he forced himself on her, ignoring her repeated refusals. When Aisha confided in a relative, she was asked, “Why did you go to his house?” Instead of receiving support, she faced judgment, which deepened her trauma.
Stories like Aisha’s are all too common, highlighting the need for society to change its perspective. A visit is never an invitation for rape, and no one should have to justify their right to safety.
Understanding Consent
Consent is at the heart of any respectful interaction. It is not ambiguous, implied, or negotiable. It must be:
Freely Given: Consent is a choice made without pressure, manipulation, or coercion.
Reversible: Anyone can change their mind at any time, even during the act.
Informed: Consent requires full understanding of what is being agreed to.
Enthusiastic: It is never reluctant or uncertain.
Specific: Consent to one act does not imply consent to another.
It is crucial to educate everyone—particularly young people—about the importance of consent and respect in relationships.
Changing the Narrative
To combat harmful narratives like “a visit is a license to rape,” we must take collective action to shift societal attitudes and behaviors.
Empowering Survivors
Survivors need support, not judgment. CEAF provides safe spaces, counseling, and resources for survivors of sexual violence to heal and rebuild their lives.
Education and Awareness
CEAF’s outreach programs focus on teaching individuals about consent, respect, and healthy relationships. By challenging myths about rape, we can prevent violence before it occurs.
Strengthening Legal Protections
While Nigeria has laws against rape, enforcement remains a challenge. CEAF advocates for stronger mechanisms to ensure perpetrators are held accountable and survivors receive justice.
Engaging Men and Boys
Men and boys play a critical role in ending rape culture. CEAF works with them to challenge toxic masculinity, promote empathy, and encourage allyship in the fight against gender-based violence.
Promoting Accountability
Everyone must understand that actions have consequences. Communities should adopt zero-tolerance policies for sexual violence and hold individuals accountable for their behavior.
A Call to Action
On this Day 7 of the #16DaysOfActivism, CEAF calls on everyone to take a stand:
Challenge Myths and Misconceptions
Speak out against harmful beliefs that excuse rape or blame survivors. Educate others about consent and the right to safety.
Support Survivors
Offer compassion and support to survivors of sexual violence. Believe their stories and help them access the resources they need.
Advocate for Change
Join organizations like CEAF in pushing for stronger laws, better enforcement, and community-driven solutions to end sexual violence.
Promote Respect and Consent
Model respectful behavior in your interactions and teach others—especially young people—to value consent and boundaries.
CEAF’s Commitment
At CEAF, we are unwavering in our commitment to ending sexual violence and creating a world where everyone feels safe and respected. Through our advocacy, education, and survivor support programs, we aim to dismantle rape culture and replace it with a culture of accountability and respect.
A visit is never a license to rape. Consent is non-negotiable, and everyone deserves the right to safety and dignity. Let us work together to ensure that this message resonates in every home, community, and institution.