By Victory Chukwuka
In Nigeria, the criminal justice system disproportionately impacts women, leading to a range of social, economic, and psychological consequences. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, there were about 8,200 women in Nigerian prisons in 2020, compared to over 70,000 men. However, the percentage of female inmates is rising, especially among those detained for non-violent offenses such as drug-related crimes and economic offenses. A 2023 Dataphyte report quoted the percentage growth rate of incarcerated women in Nigeria at 26.4%—more than twice the rate for men. Many of these cases are linked to socio-economic challenges and, in some instances, responses to prolonged abuse.
Key Impacts of Correctional Centres on Women in Nigeria
- Family Disruption
Women in Nigerian Correctional Centres often serve as the primary caregivers for their families. The imprisonment of women leads to the disruption of family structures, particularly affecting children who are left behind. Research shows that a significant number of women in Nigerian prisons are mothers, with many children being separated from their mothers and placed in alternative care arrangements. This often leads to emotional trauma for both the women and their children, with long-term developmental and psychological consequences.
- Gender-based Violence and Abuse
Women behind bars in Nigeria face a heightened risk of gender-based violence, including sexual assault, harassment, and exploitation. The lack of adequate facilities, especially in overcrowded prisons, worsen these issues.Incarcerated women also face discrimination and are often subjected to harsh treatment by male guards or fellow inmates. This abuse not only violates their basic human rights but also compounds the psychological harm experienced by incarcerated women.
- Poor Health Conditions
Custodial Centres in Nigeria, particularly those that house women, are often overcrowded and poorly equipped to meet the specific health needs of female inmates. Many women face inadequate access to healthcare, sanitation, and reproductive health services. The absence of proper maternal care in prisons is a significant issue, as pregnant women are often forced to deliver in unsanitary conditions, leading to complications during childbirth. The lack of proper medical attention for mental health issues also remains a critical concern.
- Economic Hardship
Women in detention often face economic challenges, both during and after their incarceration. Upon release, many women are labeled and struggle to find employment, leading to economic discrimination. Also, incarceration often results in the loss of their income-generating abilities, which further establishes poverty. The economic burden of maintaining families while incarcerated places immense pressure on female inmates, especially those who have been convicted for minor offenses.
- Legal and Social Exclusion
Women in Nigerian Correctional Centres often face legal challenges in terms of access to fair trials and legal representation. Many women are imprisoned due to legal inefficiencies, delays in court proceedings, or being incarcerated without proper trial. The justice system often fails to recognize the unique circumstances and vulnerabilities that women face, such as domestic abuse or the need to care for their children. Moreover, societal stigma and prejudice against women in the criminal justice system limit their chances of reintegration into society after serving their sentences.
The impact of incarceration on women in Nigeria goes beyond the physical confines of the custodial centres. It disrupts family structures, exposes women to gender-based violence, compromises their health, worsens economic hardship, and limits their opportunities for reintegration into society. To address these inequalities, it is crucial for policymakers to implement reforms that account for the unique needs of incarcerated women, improve prison conditions, and promote the use of alternative sentencing methods for non-violent offenders.