Analysis of the legal and policy framework applicable to Combat Vesico Vaginal Fistula in Nigeria and systemic challenges to their implementation

Abstract

Vesico Vaginal Fistula (VVF) is a major public health issue affecting women in developing countries, even though it is both preventable and treatable. There is a high prevalence of the ailment and also a large number of untreated victims in Nigeria. Against this background, this examines the factors responsible for obstetric fistulas especially VVF in Nigeria. The author agrees with the prevailing opinion among women’s human rights activists and other stakeholders, that these factors are either a direct violation of human rights, especially of girls and women, or a consequence of the infringement of their human rights. To this end, this work attempts an examination of the international, regional and national legal and human rights frameworks applicable to address VVF. The article highlights that unfortunately there are systemic challenges in the Nigerian legal jurisprudence itself operating as obstacles to the implementation and enforceability of those applicable laws. The work concludes with suggestions to overcome the identified challenges.