Demystifying the legal restrictions on abortion in Nigeria: Time to change the narrative

Approximately one in seven pregnancies in Nigeria end in an induced abortion, with about 4,6 per cent of women of reproductive age in Nigeria undergoing an abortion each year. Abortion itself is not a death sentence. However, death occurs in most cases, as a result of complications arising from unsafe abortion practices. Abortion remains a leading cause of maternal mortality in Nigeria. Approximately 63 per cent of abortions are unsafe and have been reported to contribute to 10 per cent of maternal deaths, with approximately 6 000 women dying each year in Nigeria. Owing to sociological and religious considerations and the provisions of the laws on abortion in Nigeria, abortion is mostly carried out by unqualified health service providers under clandestine circumstances. The likelihood of either a repeal or liberalisation of the laws in the near future is rather slim. Pending the repeal or modification of the laws, however, and in order to reduce the high incidence of unsafe abortion, this article adopts a purposeful outlook in discussing the laws and guidelines. It highlights the legal defences and positive indications for abortion within the current legal framework. It also considers the vulnerability theory and rights-based approach to improve access to abortion services in Nigeria notwithstanding the existing legal restrictions.