A 24-year-old commercial sex worker in Awka, identified as Philomena John (not her real name), has appealed for assistance to leave what she described as a dehumanizing and hazardous trade.
Philomena, who hails from Abia State, shared her story newsmen expressing her desire for a decent job that could help her rebuild her life.
“Prostitution was never part of my life plan,” she said, explaining that economic hardship forced her into the profession after her father, a professional driver, lost his job. With her mother struggling to support her four siblings, Philomena turned to sex work as a means of survival.
“I feel ashamed and heartbroken every day I do this. If only someone could help me find a proper job or set up my catering business, I would leave this life immediately,” she said tearfully.
Having trained as a caterer in Lagos, Philomena noted the lack of financial support to start her own business. She described prostitution as a “nightmare” filled with life-threatening risks and health challenges, recounting instances of falling seriously ill due to the nature of her work.
“My parents don’t know what I do. For the past eight months, I’ve had to lie to them,” she admitted.
During the interview, Philomena revealed the high demand for her services due to her youth and physical appearance. She disclosed that short-term engagements with clients range between ₦10,000 and ₦15,000, while overnight stays cost ₦30,000 or more.
A hotel manager at her workplace, speaking anonymously, confirmed the pricing structure for rooms, stating that clients pay between ₦2,000 and ₦5,000 per hour, depending on the room grade.
Philomena pleaded with Nigerians to support her exit from prostitution, emphasizing her hope for a better future. “I pray that God will send someone to help me leave this profession. This is not the life I want,” she said.
