Ms DSF claims that the Taxify driver assaulted her and attempted to kidnap and possibly rape her. It is no secret that Nigerians can be very frank with their opinions, but this incident highlighted a significantly problematic way of thinking amongst our people.

There are many who have sympathised with Ms DSF but there is a surprisingly high number of people (both men and women) who have basically called Ms DSF a liar and have made light of her reported ordeal. Which begins our conversation.

“Why are Nigerians so quick to dismiss the account of a woman, especially when it surrounds the issue of sexual assault?”

“Why is it that the testimony of a man is deemed more truthful than that of a woman?”

As far as I am aware Ms. DSF has not been involved in any “scandals” prior to this incident and she appears to work very hard at her craft, so why has she been presumed to be an unreliable source of information? Other than for the fact that she is a woman.

It is no secret that Nigeria has a long way to go in respects of protecting its women and children against sexual acts of violence. Many still have the view that it must be the fault of the woman and no blame is held against the man.

In 2018, this view is incredibly disappointing and has serious implications for the children of our future. Nigeria has deeply ingrained misogynistic attitudes within the areas of domestic abuse and sexual assault. The sad thing is, within Nigeria it is not only men who hold these misogynistic views but also women.

So, what is there to be learnt from Ms. DSF vs Henry Nnaemeka?

Ask yourself are you a misogynist?

“a person who dislikes, despises or is strongly prejudice against women” (Oxford Living Dictionary)

Stop victim blaming

This occurs when the victim of a crime or wrongful act is held entirely or partially at fault for the harm that befell them.

Have compassion and empathy

What if it was you? Or a female member of your family?

Women must protect themselves at ALL costs

Always be prepared for the worst-case scenario.

Always speak up

I did not come here to dissect Ms DSF’s account of events vs Henry Nnaemeka’s, the court of law will do that, and a verdict will be made. What I am here to do is to begin the discourse in your mind that makes you rethink the reactions of those around us and possibly ourselves. The change starts with us, Nigerians we MUST do better.

Written by Ms Tomilola

A lifestyle blogger who enjoys writing as a form of self-expression. She has a passion for helping others and aims to inspire people to see beyond their current situations. Ms Tomilola encourages people to be their authentic self and not to succumb to societal pressures.

She once regarded herself as a pessimist however she has now found the beauty in optimism. Ms_Tomilola Ms Tomilola & Candid Conversations Ms_Tomilola