Actress Shine Rosman Raises Alarm Over “Normalized” Sexual Harassment in Yaba Market

Actress Shine Rosman Raises Alarm Over “Normalized” Sexual Harassment in Yaba Market

In new interview with Tolu Afilaka, Nollywood actress, Shine Rosman condemned what she says is the everyday reality many women face in public spaces particularly in markets where unwanted touching, groping, and verbal harassment have become disturbingly common.

She said; 

“Do you know how bad sexual harrssment is in Lagos? Like go to Yaba, as a girl and see how you will be touched inappropriately. Everybody hearing this knows that it is true. But till today, nothing is being done about it. You’re walking in Yaba and people are touching you inappropriately and nothing will happen.”

“Sexual harassment is one of the most passive things in Nigeria. If a man can casually harass you during the day, what do you think he can do behind closed doors?”

Her remarks have resonated with many Nigerian women, especially those familiar with long-standing complaints about harassment in Yaba Market, one of Lagos’ busiest commercial hubs.

The issue is not new. For years, women have shared stories of being grabbed, catcalled, and assaulted while shopping or simply walking through the market. The problem became a national talking point in 2018 after the #MarketMarch protests, where women publicly demanded an end to harassment in Yaba and other open markets.  

Despite increased awareness, many women say the problem persists, with some traders and market leaders historically dismissing the behavior as “normal” sales tactics, a stance that has drawn widespread criticism.  

Shine Rosman’s comments have reignited calls for stronger enforcement of laws against sexual harassment, better public awareness, and safer public spaces for women across Nigeria.