By Our Reporter
A man was apprehended after being spotted masturbating in public around Jabi Lake, Abuja, drawing attention and condemnation from onlookers.
The incident underscores Nigeria’s strict societal and legal stance against public indecency. Rooted in cultural values and reinforced by laws such as the Penal Code—and, in some states, Sharia law—acts like public masturbation are classified as indecent exposure and carry penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment.
While some observers speculate that stress or mental health issues may play a role in such behavior, there is no concrete research directly linking cultural triggers to public indecency in Nigeria.
The location of the incident, Jabi Lake Mall, has recently seen heightened public activity following the September 12–14, 2025, launch of the Infinix flagship store. However, there is no evidence connecting commercial events in the area to an increase in such incidents.