Freetown, Sierra Leone — Sierra Leonean artist Vida has spoken publicly about alleged repeated sexual abuse by a person she says she deeply trusted, breaking her silence after what she described as a prolonged period of emotional and psychological distress.
According to Vida, she had initially chosen to remain silent out of fear of being disbelieved and judged, but said the weight of the experience had become too overwhelming to continue suppressing.
In a detailed personal account, the artist alleged that the incidents occurred after she had undergone illness and surgery, during which she had made it clear she was not physically or emotionally ready for intimacy. She said the individual initially appeared understanding but later violated that trust.
Vida claims the alleged abuse happened multiple times despite her resistance, describing the experience as deeply traumatic and life-altering.
She further disclosed that the ordeal has had a significant impact on her mental health, leaving her emotionally exhausted, unable to sleep, and struggling with a sense of disconnection.
The artist said her decision to speak out was driven by the need to reclaim her voice and confront the silence she says had become more damaging than the experience itself.
Vida also highlighted the fear many survivors face, including stigma, blame, and disbelief, which she said contributed to her reluctance to come forward earlier.
Her statement has since sparked widespread discussion, particularly on social media, around issues of sexual violence, accountability, and the challenges survivors encounter in seeking justice and support.
