Sexual abuse against children and teenagers is a serious issue in Nigeria, with many young lives affected in silence. While parents have a crucial role in protection, children and teenagers themselves can also take practical steps to shield themselves from sexual predators. Awareness, assertiveness, and knowledge of safety measures empower young people to recognize and avoid risky situations.
1. The NO-GO-TELL Rule
This is the most important defense you have. If someone touches you, says something, or asks you to do anything that makes you feel scared, confused, or uncomfortable:
- SAY NO! Use a firm voice, look them in the eye, and say “No!” You don’t have to be polite when you feel unsafe.
- GO! Run or walk away quickly. Get to a crowded place or find a trusted adult.
- TELL! Immediately tell a safe adult (Mum, Dad, a trusted teacher, or older sibling). Don’t stop telling until someone listens and helps you.
2. Know Your Private Parts
Your private parts are the areas of your body covered by a swimsuit.
- The Rule: No one should ever touch you there, and you should never touch anyone else there.
- Exception: A doctor or nurse for a medical reason, but only if your trusted parent/guardian is in the room with you.
- Red Flag: If an adult tells you touching is a “secret game” or asks you not to tell anyone, it is wrong, and it is a lie.
3. Be Careful of “Secret Keepers”
Predators often try to isolate you by making you keep a secret from your parents.
- Bad Secrets vs. Good Secrets:
- Good Secret: Planning a Surprise Birthday Party.
- Bad Secret: Any secret that involves your body, makes you feel guilty, or prevents you from talking to your parents.
- Rule: If someone asks you to keep a secret from your mum or dad, tell your mum or dad immediately. Your parents need to know everything that affects your safety.
4. Safety Online (Especially for Teens)
The same rules apply to your phone and laptop!
- Strangers are Strangers: A person you meet online is a stranger, no matter how long you’ve been chatting.
- Never Meet Alone: Never agree to meet up with an online friend. If you really must, always tell your parents, meet in a very public, busy place, and bring a trusted friend or adult with you.
- Think Before You Send: Do not share any personal pictures or information with anyone online that you wouldn’t want the whole world (including your parents!) to see. Once it’s online, it’s out of your control forever.
5. Always Have a “Safe Adult” List
Every student needs to have at least three adults they trust completely. These are the people you go to right away if you feel unsafe or if something bad happens.
- (e.g., Mum/Dad)
- (e.g., A Trusted Aunt/Uncle)
- (e.g., School Counselor/Teacher)
Your body is important. Your voice is powerful. Stay safe!
