Election-Related Violence Against Women in Nigeria

“The 2014-2015 election period in Nigeria is creating unrest and concern over increasing rates of election-related violence against women. 2014 was reportedly “the most violent year” for women in Nigeria, in large part due to Boko Haram’s targeted kidnapping of and attacks against women and girls. They are also known to have coerced women and girls into serving as suicide bombers in Kano State. Against this backdrop of growing insurgent violence with catastrophic consequences on civilians – particularly in the northeast region – presidential elections are impending.”