By Clement Oserah
As public debate continues over morality and modern fashion, legal frameworks have begun to reflect growing concern. Section 26 of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act 2015, currently operational in parts of Nigeria, explicitly prohibits indecent dressing, with provisions for punitive measures.
In Edo State, conversations around the applicability of this law are gaining traction.
The VAPP Act, enacted in 2015, is a federal law designed to eliminate violence in both private and public spheres. Section 26 of the Act criminalises what it describes as indecent exposure of sensitive body parts, particularly when such exposure causes distress to the opposite sex.
According to the Edo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Samson Osagie, the provision targets the prevention of sexual abuse and harassment, especially in cases where indecent exposure is used as an excuse by perpetrators.
He noted that the prohibition seeks not only to protect individuals from harm but also to promote the dignity of women. However, he acknowledged the complexities surrounding enforcement, citing the clash between personal freedom of expression and public decency.
“There is a general perception that any attempt to enforce this law may be interpreted as harassment or an infringement on individual rights,” Osagie said. “That alone limits the practicality of implementation, especially in a liberal society like Edo State.”
On the streets, residents have expressed mixed reactions. While some argue that dressing is a personal choice, others believe that societal norms must be upheld for the common good.
Kate Jonathan and Orobosa Ogieva, both residents of Benin City, called on the public to maintain modesty in appearance. They also urged authorities to enforce the law to curb rising moral decadence and restore societal sanity.
As the debate lingers, it remains to be seen how Edo State will navigate the fine line between civil liberty and public morality in enforcing Section 26 of the VAPP Act.
