Bitter Lemon
My name is Amaka. I am a second-class upper graduate from the prestigious Obafemi Awolowo University in Nigeria.
I always thought my good result would pave the way for me after graduation, but I was wrong. Entering into the Nigerian labor market played out a different script for me.
I got a job notice for an accountant in a big oil firm in Nigeria, and I applied for it. I was shortlisted and invited for an interview which I traveled many kilometers and spent so much money to attend.
We were just four selected for that position. After interviewing us, the manager called each person privately to speak with us. My turn came, and I confidently entered the office.
“Good day, Sir.”
“Good day, Amaka. How are you?”
“I am great, Sir. How are you?”
“I’m good. Please sit. It pleases us to inform you that you’re the most qualified for this position.”
“Wow! This is cheering news, Sir. What does this suggest?”
“Well! The job will be yours but…. You’re a gorgeous girl ohh, what we call beauty with brains hahaha. How about we have dinner tonight, you and I, to celebrate this appointment and also get to know ourselves.”
“Ehmm! Okay, Sir.”
I responded, not knowing what I was in for. He sent the address hours later, and I met him at the venue. After having dinner, he asked me to follow him upstairs to get my appointment letter. I did innocently. Mr. John Bolaji overpowered me and raped me. I got the appointment letter, but I lost my joy and peace.
I was the most qualified for the position, yet I needed to still pay with my body after burning the midnight candle.
The end.
The above story is the fate of many young Nigerian ladies. They face sexual harassment in the workplace not because they are not qualified enough.
Join us on the 7th and 11th of March 2022 by 7 pm as we host a lives show on Twitter spaces and Instagram live to discuss Breaking the bias of sexual harassment in the workplace.
© HEIR Women Development.