By Maryam Kyari
Sexual harassment has become a serious problem in today’s society. It happens in workplaces, schools, and even online. Yet, instead of being stopped, it is often ignored or accepted as normal. Many women suffer in silence because they are afraid to speak up. From classrooms to offices and social media, people in power are using their positions to harass and intimidate women.
Harassment in Schools: A Barrier to Education
Schools are supposed to be safe places for learning, but many female students experience harassment. Some lecturers and male students take advantage of their power to pressure or intimidate girls. When victims try to report these incidents, they are often ignored, blamed, or even punished.
This toxic environment affects women’s education and forces many to stay silent. Some fear that speaking up will affect their grades, while others are afraid of being judged. As a result, harassment continues, and those responsible are not held accountable.
Workplace Harassment: A Silent Epidemic
The workplace is another place where harassment happens frequently. Many female employees experience inappropriate behavior from their bosses or male colleagues. Because men often hold more power in workplaces, women feel pressured to tolerate misconduct to protect their jobs.
Victims fear losing their jobs or being labeled as “difficult” if they complain. Society also plays a role in this silence. Women are often told to accept harassment rather than report it. This allows abusers to continue their actions without consequences.
The Role of Social Media: A Double-Edged Sword
Social media was supposed to be a place where people can express themselves freely. However, it has also become a new space for harassment. Women who share their opinions online often face insults, cyberbullying, and even threats. Some are blackmailed with private photos or messages.
The consequences of online harassment are severe, affecting mental health and discouraging women from participating in digital spaces. This limits their ability to network, engage in activism, and build careers online.
The Silence Surrounding Harassment
One of the biggest challenges in fighting sexual harassment is the silence around it. Many victims do not report harassment because they fear being blamed or not being taken seriously. The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in Nigeria reports that over 70% of harassment cases are never reported. This shows the need for stronger laws and support systems for victims.
An NHRC official in Kano stated, “Sexual harassment should never be accepted as normal. We urge victims to come forward and assure them that justice will be served.”
Efforts to Combat Harassment
Despite these challenges, there is hope. Some schools, like Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria (MAAUN), are taking action by enforcing strict rules against harassment. Workplaces are also beginning to introduce policies to prevent misconduct. Awareness campaigns are helping women understand their rights and how to protect themselves.
Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and awareness campaigns are also educating women on their rights and ways to seek justice. The fight against harassment requires legal action, institutional change, and societal support.
The Call for Change
Change starts with all of us. Women should be encouraged to stand up for their dignity, education, and careers. We must reject the idea that harassment is a normal part of life. Society must stop protecting abusers and start supporting victims.
We must all speak out, support those affected, and hold people in power accountable. If we work together, we can create a world where women feel safe, respected, and free to chase their dreams.
Sexual harassment is not normal. It must never be accepted. It is time to break the silence, change the system, and build a future where every woman is valued and protected.
Silence only empowers the oppressors. Every voice matters, and every action counts. Will you choose to stand against harassment, or will you allow it to continue? The fight for justice starts with you.
Maryam Kyari
300-Level, Department of Mass Communication
Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria (MAAUN), Kano
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