Gendered objectification and the sanctity of life: a feminist theological appraisal of female portrayal in selected contemporary Nigerian hip hop music

Abstract

Gendered objectification is an undeniable reality in the modern world because the female folk has remained vulnerable as their bodies and sexuality are oftentimes exploited. It arises in a situation when an individual because of her/his gender is seen as an object or “thing” for others’ use or pleasure, which is an act of violation of the sanctity of life. This experience as seen in Contemporary Nigerian Hip Hop music, where the female body, sexuality and being is objectified has suffered not much attention especially from a feminist theological view. This paper therefore seeks to appraise the portrayal of women in this genre of music and the sacrosanct principles of the sanctity of life. The study will answer the following research questions: In what areas are women objectified in selected Contemporary Nigerian Hip Hop music? What are the feminist theological views of female objectification? What are the consequences of gendered objectification for the female folks, sanctity of life and the society at large? These questions will be addressed in this study with a view of bringing to the fore the implications of the portrayal of women in Contemporary Nigerian Hip Hop music as objects of use or pleasure for the nation at large