Chinaza Nwaezere, a 26-year-old woman from Abakiliki Local Government Area in Ebonyi State, faced immense challenges after her mother’s passing in 2014, which left her as the primary caretaker for her sick father and six younger siblings.
With her father unable to work due to a heart condition, Chinaza took on the responsibility of providing for the family by taking to the streets as a sex worker.
She tells GODFREY GEORGE of Punch Newspaper how life has been for her caring for her sick father and six younger siblings with the proceeds from the ‘business’ and why she wants to quit.
Despite her limited education, stopping at Junior Secondary School level, Chinaza tried her hand at various businesses in Enugu State, including selling foodstuff and baking.
However, these ventures failed to generate enough income to sustain the family, leading Chinaza to consider alternative means of making money.
In 2022, Chinaza noticed a swelling in her neck, which was later diagnosed as goitre, causing her immense discomfort and difficulty breathing.
Despite seeking medical attention, the high cost of surgery, estimated at N700,000, proved prohibitive.
Struggling to make ends meet, Chinaza turned to sex work, initially in Enugu and later relocating to Asaba, Delta State, following the advice of a friend.
She concealed her occupation from her family, particularly her father and younger siblings, while her elder sister, aware of her situation, offered silent support.
In her four months in Asaba, Chinaza faced challenges with police harassment and homelessness, exacerbating her already dire situation.
She charged clients around N30,000 per night, negotiating rates based on perceived wealth, but often faced discomfort and pain during encounters due to her medical condition.
Despite the dangers and hardships of sex work, Chinaza expressed a strong desire to leave the industry once she could afford surgery.
She emphasized the need for other women to avoid the profession, highlighting its risks and lack of long-term benefits.
Chinaza hoped for a better future, including finding a loving, supportive partner outside the sex work industry and returning to legitimate businesses once her health and financial situation improved.
