Actress Shine Rosman Raises Alarm Over Sexual Harassment in Lagos, Urges Women to Defend Themselves

Shine Rosman has sparked fresh conversations about women’s safety in Lagos after speaking openly about what she described as widespread sexual harassment in public spaces, particularly in the Yaba area of the state.

The actress and advocate said many women experience inappropriate touching and harassment in broad daylight with little fear of consequences for offenders, warning that the situation has become normalised in some parts of the city.

Speaking during an appearance on the Cafe One Studio podcast, Rosman expressed frustration over what she sees as a lack of effective action from authorities despite years of complaints from women.

“Go to Yaba as a girl and see how you’ll be touched inappropriately. Everyone hearing this knows it is true,” she said.

“But till today, nothing has been done about it. You’re walking in Yaba, and people are touching you inappropriately, and nothing will happen.”

Rosman, known for her role in the TV series To Kill A Monkey, also referenced a viral TikTok video showing a woman using a cane to confront a man who allegedly harassed her in public.

According to the actress, the incident reflects growing frustration among women who feel abandoned by law enforcement and forced to protect themselves.

“I said, ‘Good, flog him.’ If the government is not going to do anything, it’s enough for us to defend ourselves,” she stated.

Rosman questioned what offenders might be capable of behind closed doors if they can harass women openly in crowded public spaces without consequences.

Beyond acting, Rosman is the founder of Available Shoulders, a non-profit organisation focused on supporting survivors of harassment, abuse and emotional trauma.

Her comments have reignited debates online about women’s safety, street harassment and the effectiveness of existing laws protecting women in Nigeria.

While concerns persist, the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency says it continues to provide legal, medical and psychological support for survivors of abuse while running awareness campaigns and educational programmes aimed at reducing sexual violence across the state.