New Research by The Momentum Support Initiative (TMS)
The Momentum Support Initiative (TMS) is proud to publish its latest research, “Access to Justice and Protection Challenges Among Sex Workers in Ogun State, Nigeria,” a study that examines the legal, social, and institutional barriers affecting sex workers’ ability to seek justice and protection from violence.
Despite existing human rights protections, many sex workers continue to face sexual violence, unlawful arrests, extortion, discrimination, and significant obstacles in accessing legal and judicial services. This research provides evidence-based insights into these challenges while offering practical recommendations for policymakers, civil society organizations, law enforcement agencies, and justice sector stakeholders.
About the Research
Conducted across Abeokuta and Sagamu in Ogun State, the study adopted a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews, focus group discussions, and case studies to capture both statistical trends and lived experiences.
The research engaged:
- 50 sex workers across selected brothels
- Legal practitioners and human rights advocates
- Law enforcement officers
- Judicial stakeholders
to better understand the realities surrounding violence, policing, legal awareness, and access to justice.
Key Findings
The findings reveal significant protection and justice gaps:
- 76% of respondents reported experiencing sexual violence.
- More than half of reported incidents involved clients, while a substantial proportion involved law enforcement officers, highlighting abuse from both private individuals and state actors.
- 79% of survivors did not report incidents due to fear of arrest, corruption, stigma, and lack of confidence in the justice system.
- 68% reported police harassment or arrest, while 52% experienced demands for bribes.
- 76% were unaware of their legal rights, and 80% had no knowledge of available legal aid services.
- Among those who sought justice, only 25% had access to legal representation.
These findings demonstrate the urgent need to strengthen legal protections, improve institutional accountability, and expand access to justice for marginalized communities.
Why This Research Matters
Access to justice is a fundamental human right. No individual should be denied protection from violence or excluded from legal remedies because of stigma, occupation, or social identity.
This report contributes to ongoing conversations around:
- Human rights and dignity
- Gender-based violence prevention and response
- Access to justice
- Police accountability
- Legal aid accessibility
- Inclusive public health and protection systems
By documenting lived experiences alongside empirical evidence, the research seeks to support informed advocacy, evidence-based programming, and policy reforms that promote safety, accountability, and equal protection under the law.
Recommendations
The report outlines several recommendations, including:
- Strengthening legal protections against sexual violence.
- Improving police accountability and oversight mechanisms.
- Expanding access to free legal aid services.
- Increasing awareness of legal rights among sex workers.
- Enhancing access to healthcare, psychosocial support, and social protection services.
- Promoting economic empowerment opportunities for those seeking alternative livelihoods.
- Supporting public awareness initiatives that reduce stigma and encourage a human rights-based approach.
Read the Full Report
We invite policymakers, researchers, civil society organizations, development partners, media professionals, legal practitioners, and members of the public to explore the full report and join us in advancing evidence-driven solutions that strengthen access to justice and protect the rights and dignity of all people.
Published by
The Momentum Support Initiative (TMS)
Advancing human rights, promoting access to justice, and strengthening inclusive communities through research, advocacy, and evidence-based action.
