The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), has sensitised the 2026 Batch A, Stream II, Corps Members in Lagos, on the growing concern of sexual harassment, describing it as an important issue that has eaten deep into the fabric of the society.
The NYSC Lagos Legal Secretary, Barrister Tosin Onilenla who addressed Corps members at the Iyana-ipaja orientation camp emphasised that sexual harassment is a gender-inclusive problem that affects both males and females.
She explained that sexual harassment involves unwanted sexual advances or requests, whether physical or verbal, that create an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment.
Barrister Onilenla highlighted that harassment can often be subtle and urged corps members not to remain silent when confronted with such situations as silence empowers perpetrators.
She identified various forms of sexual harassment, including silent harassment, vocal harassment (ranging from subtle to aggressive), and indirect harassment such as persistent phone calls and harassment in public spaces.
Speaking on its impact, she addressed the emotional trauma victims often endure and shared real-life examples to provide context. She emphasised that saying “no” firmly is not disrespectful and further noted that self defense is justified when one’s dignity is under threat.
She also addressed online sexual harassment, advising victims to document evidence, report incidents, and block offenders. In addition, she referenced the Lagos State Sexual Offenders Register, where identities of convicted offenders are publicly displayed.
She advised victims to speak up, report incidents to appropriate authorities such as Zonal Inspectors and Local Government Inspectors, and avoid being silenced by fear or intimidation.
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