From Right to Privacy to Equal Rights in Marriage: 8 Laws Every Nigerian Woman Must Be Aware Of

In today’s Nigeria, knowing your rights isn’t just empowering—it’s essential.

Many women are often unaware of the legal protections available to them, which can leave them vulnerable in workplaces, relationships, and even healthcare settings.

From the right to privacy to protection against unlawful arrests, here are eight key laws every Nigerian woman should know:

1. Right to privacy (1999 Constitution, Section 37)

Every woman has the right to keep her personal life private—including phone conversations, messages, and family matters. No one (including employers, partners, or authorities) has the right to invade your privacy without lawful justification.

2. Protection against domestic violence (Violence against persons prohibition act, 2015)

This law criminalizes physical, emotional, psychological, and sexual abuse within the home. It also covers harmful practices such as female genital mutilation (FGM). Importantly, it applies in Abuja but has been adopted by many states across Nigeria.

3. Right to dignity of human person (1999 Constitution, Section 34)

Women are protected from torture, degrading treatment, and exploitation. This law directly challenges practices like forced labor, sexual harassment, and harmful widowhood rites.

4. Maternity rights (Labour act, Cap L1 LFN 2004)

Female employees are entitled to at least 12 weeks of maternity leave, with at least 50% of their wages paid. Employers cannot dismiss a woman because she is pregnant.

5. Equal rights in marriage (Matrimonial causes Act, 1970)

Nigerian law recognizes the equal rights of men and women in marriage, including rights to custody, property, and protection against forced marriage. Women can seek legal redress if their marital rights are violated.

6. Sexual harassment laws (Criminal code & VAPP Act)

It is illegal for anyone—whether in the workplace, school, or elsewhere—to demand sexual favors in exchange for grades, promotions, or opportunities. Survivors have the right to report and seek justice.

7. Inheritance and property rights (Supreme court ruling, 2014)

The Supreme Court has affirmed that female children have equal rights to inherit property, regardless of traditional or customary laws that discriminate against women.

8. No arrest of women at night (Except by court order or for serious crimes)

Nigerian courts have ruled that women should not be arrested at night unless:

• A competent court issues a warrant, or

• The woman is suspected of a serious/capital offense (e.g., armed robbery, murder).

This protects women from intimidation and abuse under the cover of darkness. If arrested unlawfully at night, a woman can challenge it in court.

Conclusion

Knowing these laws gives women the confidence to speak up, seek legal help, and challenge violations when they occur. Every Nigerian woman deserves to live with dignity, safety, and equality.