Child Sexual Abuse in Nigeria: Exploring Vulnerability and Prevention from a Policing Perspective

Abstract

To date, literature on vulnerabilities of children and prevention of child sexual abuse (CSA) has relied on the contributions of child-care professionals, health practitioners, and other social workers, excluding police officers. The purpose of this study is to draw on the experiences and expert opinions of police officers in exploring the vulnerabilities of children to sexual abuse and prescribing preventive measures. Officers’ engagement is premised on their collaborative work with social service agents in improving responses to crimes of violence against children. This qualitative study was conducted with 24 police detectives of the sexual offenses units in the six zonal police commands of southwest Nigeria. From the thematic analysis of their narratives, findings indicated a link between socio-cultural and religious beliefs and children’s exposure to sexual abuse. Participants indicated believe that there is a growing number of men who are preferentially or solely sexually attracted to prepubescent females. In addressing CSA, participants suggested a specialist approach to policing CSA, abolition of child marriage, community engagement in CSA policing, and legal instrumentations to govern socio-cultural practices. The study invite research that triangulates the perspectives of parents, community elders, and religious leaders in communities where considerable incidents of CSA have been reported.