Research shows rising online violence against Nigerian women in politics
A new study reveals a growing wave of technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TF-GBV) targeting Nigerian women in politics, hindering their participation and perpetuating underrepresentation. The research, conducted by dRPC, highlights how digital spaces are weaponized with sexist slurs, rape threats, and smear campaigns to intimidate female politicians. Political parties are largely failing to address the threat, often dismissing it as "rough politics" and lacking adequate support mechanisms. This violence disproportionately impacts women marginalized by age, ethnicity, or marital status and spikes during campaigns and elections. The report urges political parties to incorporate TF-GBV clauses in their constitutions, implement formal reporting systems, and promote gender sensitivity training to create safer political environments for women.
