Essential Guide for Nigerian Survivors: What to Do After Rape or Sexual Assault
In Nigeria, where rape cases continue to surface with alarming frequency, knowing the crucial steps to take immediately after an assault can make a significant difference in a survivor's recovery journey. This comprehensive guide provides detailed, practical information for survivors and their supporters, outlining essential actions from the first moments through long-term healing.
The Stark Reality of Sexual Violence in Nigeria
Recent years have witnessed a disturbing increase in reported rape cases across Nigeria. Social media platforms frequently trend with heartbreaking stories, public outrage, and detailed timelines of what transpired. While public attention often fades after a few days, for survivors, the impact remains profound and lasting.
The Mirabel Centre, Nigeria's pioneering Sexual Assault Referral Centre, has provided critical medical and psychosocial support to more than 10,000 survivors since its establishment. Each number represents an individual story, a moment of profound fear, and a person grappling with trauma that should never have occurred.
Globally, the statistics paint an even more sobering picture. UNICEF estimates that over 79 million girls and women in sub-Saharan Africa alone have experienced rape or sexual assault during childhood. Beyond the temporary outrage and trending conversations, practical guidance becomes essential for those navigating the aftermath of such trauma.
Immediate Steps: Safety First
If an assault has just occurred, your immediate safety takes absolute priority. Find a secure environment away from potential danger. If possible, contact someone you trust—whether a friend, family member, or someone who can provide physical presence and support. You do not need to face this situation alone.
Shock and disorientation are normal reactions following trauma. Focus on one fundamental objective: reaching a safe location. Medical attention, while potentially difficult to consider in such moments, remains critically important even without visible injuries.
Seeking Medical Care: Beyond the Visible
Medical professionals can provide comprehensive care that addresses both immediate and potential long-term health concerns. Even if you feel physically "fine," medical attention is strongly recommended for several crucial reasons:
- Treatment of internal injuries that may not be immediately apparent
- Testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Access to emergency contraception options
- Documentation of evidence for potential legal proceedings
- Availability of HIV post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) within specific time windows
Many Nigerian hospitals employ trained sexual assault nurse examiners who conduct forensic examinations with survivor consent at every stage. These examinations may include clothing collection, DNA swabs, injury documentation, and statement recording. Crucially, evidence kits can be preserved even if you're not immediately ready to report to authorities.
Evidence Preservation: Your Choice Matters
If considering legal action, preserving potential evidence becomes important. When possible after recent assault, avoid:
- Bathing or showering
- Brushing teeth
- Changing clothes
- Eating or drinking
- Cleaning any touched surfaces
These precautions help preserve forensic evidence like DNA traces. If you've already completed any of these actions, that's completely understandable—you can still seek medical care and consider reporting. For clothing preservation, use paper bags rather than plastic to prevent evidence degradation.
Reporting Options: Your Decision Alone
Reporting sexual assault to authorities represents a deeply personal decision. Some survivors feel pressured to report immediately, while others experience understandable fear about involving law enforcement. Both reactions are valid, and the choice remains entirely yours.
In Nigeria, centers like the Mirabel Centre provide treatment and counseling regardless of reporting decisions. For those choosing to report, the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) offers specialized support through their Violence Against Persons Prohibition Department. Their toll-free hotlines (627 and 07030000203) provide access to investigation, counseling, and protection services.
Emotional Support and Long-Term Healing
Recovery from sexual assault encompasses both physical and psychological dimensions. Trauma responses—including confusion, numbness, anxiety, or emotional detachment—represent normal reactions to overwhelming experiences, not signs of weakness.
Professional support from counselors, therapists, or trained support workers can provide:
- Assistance in processing what occurred
- Coping strategies for managing trauma symptoms
- Safe spaces for emotional expression
- Guidance through the healing journey
Long-term wellbeing considerations might include follow-up medical care, ongoing mental health support, connection with trusted individuals, and education about legal rights. Healing follows no predetermined timeline—some days will feel more manageable than others, and both experiences are valid.
Understanding Trauma Responses
Immediately following assault, survivors may experience various psychological and physiological reactions. Some describe feeling disconnected from their bodies, while others experience freezing, shaking, or unusual calmness. Emotional responses range from uncontrollable crying to emotional numbness—all normal trauma responses.
Common trauma symptoms include memory gaps, confusion, sudden anger, misplaced shame, hyper-alertness, depression, anxiety, fear of isolation or touch, irritability, and loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities. Trauma fundamentally alters one's sense of safety, requiring time and support to rebuild.
Grounding techniques can help manage anxiety and flashbacks:
- Deep breathing exercises
- Identifying five visible objects in your environment
- Holding ice or focusing on physical sensations
- Engaging in slow, deliberate movement
These practices help anchor you in the present moment. Remember: nothing about the assault was your fault—not your clothing, location, consumption, or reactions. Survival itself demonstrates strength, even when you may not feel strong.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is immediate reporting mandatory?
No. Reporting represents a personal choice. Evidence can often be preserved while you decide.
2. Can I still seek medical care after showering?
Absolutely. Medical attention remains crucial for your health, and evidence may still be collectible.
3. Are guilt feelings normal?
Yes, but responsibility lies entirely with the perpetrator, not the survivor.
4. How long does trauma last?
Healing varies individually. Professional support significantly aids recovery, but there's no set timeline.
5. Can men experience sexual assault?
Yes. Sexual violence affects individuals regardless of gender, and support resources exist for all survivors.
These steps represent options, not obligations. Move at your own pace, choose what feels safe, and seek support when ready. Your wellbeing remains the ultimate priority throughout this challenging journey.
