Sexual Harassment in the Workplace: Case Study of the Nigerian Legal Sector

Abstract

Sexual Harassment has been a habitual phenomenon among legal professionals. Consequently, “suffering and smiling” is the concealed solution to this challenge due to the importance of livelihood and career development. This study seeks to examine the prevalence of sexual harassment within the Nigerian legal profession, whether there is need for the victims to be protected and provided with legal structure to confidently report issue of sexual harassment, and whether there is a need for domestic law for the society. Empirical and descriptive research methods were adopted, 561 Nigerian lawyers were surveyed using a structured questionnaire. Data were collected and analyzed using frequencies, chi-square, chart, regression and correlation analysis. It revealed that there is no adequate social structure for addressing sexual harassment and prolonged exposure to sexual harassment has disguised its true effect on the victims. Thus, there is a need for professional regulation to combat sexual harassment among the lawyers.

Keywords: Behavioural adaptation; Nigerian legal professionals; National Industrial Court of Nigeria; Unprofessional behaviour: Sexual harassment in the workplace

DOI: 10.7176/JLPG/86-13

Publication date:June 30^th 2019