Veteran Nollywood actress Kate Henshaw has voiced strong concerns about gender inequality in Nigeria, arguing that both the country’s legal framework and cultural attitudes systematically disadvantage women.

During a recent appearance on Arise TV, Henshaw delivered pointed criticism of what she perceives as institutionalized discrimination against women in Nigerian society. The accomplished actress specifically targeted the Violence Against Persons Prohibition laws, arguing that these regulations inherently favor men over women.
“Even our laws, the violence against persons prohibition laws favour men. A man is allowed to chastise his wife. Why?” Henshaw questioned, highlighting what she sees as legal sanctioning of domestic violence.
Her critique extends beyond legislation to encompass broader societal attitudes, which she believes position women as inherently inferior to men. “Nigerian men see women as less human,” she stated bluntly, characterizing this perspective as deeply ingrained in the country’s social fabric.

To support her argument for gender equality, Henshaw drew upon religious scripture, offering her interpretation of the biblical creation narrative. Her theological perspective challenges traditional hierarchical interpretations of male-female relationships.
“God first created man, no doubt, but He brought the woman out from the side, and not from under the man’s feet,” she explained, emphasizing the symbolic significance of this detail in the creation story.
According to Henshaw’s interpretation, this positioning carries profound meaning for how relationships between men and women should function. “He created the woman not to be beneath the man but beside, to reign beside him, to be fruitful, multiply and grow together,” she elaborated.
Her biblical exegesis presents a vision of partnership rather than domination, suggesting that divine intention was for men and women to function as equals in both spiritual and practical matters.

Henshaw’s comments reflect ongoing debates about women’s rights and gender equality in Nigeria, where traditional cultural practices often intersect with modern legal frameworks. Her use of both legal and religious arguments demonstrates the multi-faceted nature of gender equality discussions in Nigerian society.
The actress’s critique joins a growing chorus of voices calling for reform in how Nigerian society treats women, both through formal legal channels and informal social expectations.