Academic Research & Publications
Below is a selection of my research and published work, exploring topics related to identity, social issues, and community resilience.
Publications
Not Just a Hashtag
Published in: The Whorticulturalist Magazine, Oct 2020
This article examines the #EndSARS movement in Nigeria, a youth-led protest against police brutality by the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS). It details the history of SARS, systemic abuses, and the government’s repeated failures to implement meaningful reforms despite promises to dissolve the unit. The piece highlights key moments, including the October 2020 Lekki Tollgate massacre, where peaceful protesters were met with deadly force.
Through personal narratives, historical context, and a passionate call to action, the article underscores the need for systemic change in Nigeria and urges global attention to the plight of its citizens. The accompanying illustration, created by Estella Tenga, UWCM’21, visually reinforces the urgency of the movement and the resilience of Nigerian youth.
Academic Research
Microaggression Experiences and Coping Strategies of Black Women
This study explores the experiences of Black women with gendered racism, defined as the intersection of racism and sexism, and examines the coping mechanisms they use to mitigate its effects. Using a phenomenological approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with three Black women enrolled in university. Thematic analysis revealed four key themes: stereotypes (e.g., the “angry Black woman”), silencing and marginalization, emotional effects (such as double consciousness), and coping strategies, including education and self-care. The findings underscore the need for greater awareness of gendered racism and call for systemic changes to support Black women navigating these challenges.
Reframing Manhood: Understanding Hegemonic Masculinity in Male Sexual Victimization
This study explores public attitudes toward traditional policing and alternative methods, such as mental health emergency responses and defunding the police. Using a between-subjects experimental design, 78 participants were presented with information in either written or infographic form to assess how different formats and content influence perceptions of policing models.
The research aims to contribute to ongoing discussions about reimagining public safety by examining the effectiveness of alternative approaches. It highlights the importance of exploring diverse communication strategies to engage the public in meaningful conversations about systemic change.
Religion and the Pandemic
This research explores the dual role of religion during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting its potential to both support and hinder public health efforts. On one hand, religion provided solace and hope for many, serving as a positive coping mechanism and a source of community resilience. On the other hand, religious gatherings and practices sometimes undermined public health measures, contributing to the spread of the virus and resistance to vaccination efforts. Using frameworks such as the Self-Regulation Model of Illness and the Health Belief Model, the study examines how religious beliefs shaped individual behaviors and attitudes toward the pandemic. Case studies, including observations from Nigeria, illustrate the complexities of balancing faith with science during a global crisis.
Investigating the Response to Policing and Alternative Methods to Policing
This research explores the overlooked experiences of male survivors of sexual abuse and examines how societal norms of hegemonic masculinity contribute to their victimization, underreporting, and barriers to seeking support. Drawing on interdisciplinary frameworks, including feminist theory, intersectionality, and social learning perspectives, the paper highlights the role of gender norms and power structures in silencing male survivors. The study also addresses the compounded challenges faced by marginalized groups, such as Black men, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. A proposed change plan outlines systemic and community-based interventions, including trauma-informed care, policy advocacy, and education initiatives, to create a more supportive and inclusive environment for male survivors.