Brothel Tragedy: Akure Sex Workers Demand Justice, Protection After Colleague’s Death

Akure, Ondo State – A tragic incident in Akure has led to the death of a sex worker following a violent altercation with a male client, sparking renewed calls for enhanced safety measures and access to healthcare for those in the industry. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Sunday, June 29, 2025, at a brothel in the Cathedral area, is currently under investigation by the Ondo State Police Command.

According to eyewitnesses, the deceased, who was reportedly unwell that night but proceeded with a client’s request for an overnight session after being paid ₦15,000, became the subject of a dispute when the client’s expectations were not met. A close friend, who wished to remain anonymous, recounted, “She was unwell but didn’t want to lose the money. After he paid, he became violent when he wasn’t satisfied. Others intervened and tried to calm him down.”

The client initially left the brothel but soon returned, reportedly with a group of associates, demanding a refund. By this time, the woman’s condition had severely deteriorated. “We asked him to return later, hoping she would regain strength, but when he came back, the situation worsened. That was when we called the police,” the friend added.

Upon the arrival of police, the sex worker’s health had further declined. She was rushed to a nearby hospital in Lafe and subsequently transferred to the Police Hospital in Akure, where she was tragically confirmed dead on arrival. Her body has since been deposited at the State Specialist Hospital morgue for autopsy.

The Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka Olushola, confirmed the incident, stating that the suspect allegedly mobilized peers to forcibly retrieve the money. “Our officers arrested three of his accomplices alongside him, while others fled. The matter is under investigation,” Olushola stated. Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, has ordered the case transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for a thorough probe, assuring the public that justice will be served. Names of those involved are being withheld pending further investigation.

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This incident has amplified concerns about the precarious conditions faced by sex workers in Akure, many of whom operate without fundamental health insurance or formal protection. “If she had health insurance, she could have gone to a hospital when she started feeling sick,” her friend lamented, highlighting the constant health and safety risks.

Another sex worker voiced the emotional toll of the profession, urging government intervention. “This job is physically and emotionally draining. We need policies that protect us and channels to report abusive clients before it’s too late,” she pleaded. “That man clearly wanted more than what was agreed. Only used condoms were found in the room. If there were proper regulations, she might still be alive.”

Patricia Uwonkolo, another sex worker, emphasized the lack of resources and the self-reliance within their community. “We have no choice but to protect ourselves. Nobody else will do it for us,” she said, noting that some have formed support networks to manage issues like drug use, often resorting to herbs or drugs to cope. She also acknowledged the limited basic medical support provided by some charitable organizations.

The legal landscape for sex workers in Nigeria remains ambiguous. While prostitution is illegal in Northern states under Sharia law and subject to penalties for pimps and brothel owners in Southern states, it is not explicitly criminalized for independent individuals. However, a recent Federal High Court ruling in Abuja dismissed a suit seeking to enforce sex workers’ rights, stating they have no legal standing to operate without intimidation. This legal uncertainty further complicates efforts to ensure their safety and access to essential services.

The brothel owner declined to comment on the incident, directing inquiries to the police. Investigations are ongoing as authorities strive to apprehend all individuals connected to the death and ensure accountability.