Behind Convent Walls: Reverend Sister Exposes Sexual Harassment By Priests

A reverend sister, Kinse Anastasia of Veritas University, Abuja, has lifted the lid on what she describes as years of sexual harassment and exploitation faced by Catholic nuns at the hands of priests.

In a fiery social media post on Monday, Sr. Anastasia accused some priests of reducing sisters to “ornaments in Habits,” claiming many clergy openly say that “Sisters are meant to be priests’ wives” and act on it without remorse.

“Religious Sisters are not priests’ wives. We are not bedmates. We are women of God. The Church must do better because God is watching,” she declared.

She further alleged that some church leaders and superiors deliberately silence sisters who complain, making them vulnerable to further abuse. According to her, the misuse of authority within the Church fosters a culture where exploitation thrives unchecked.

While condemning priests who exploit nuns, Sr. Anastasia also called out sisters who compromise their vows, arguing that such actions weaken the sacredness of consecrated life and embolden abusers.

Her revelations have sparked heated reactions across Nigeria’s Catholic community and beyond, with many praising her courage for speaking out. Human rights advocates and church reformists are urging the Catholic Church to establish safe and independent reporting systems where sisters can lodge complaints without fear of reprisal.

The allegations have intensified pressure on the Church to confront what critics describe as an “open secret” long whispered within convent walls. For many faithful, the response of Church authorities in the coming weeks will be a critical test of its commitment to justice and moral integrity.