Groups Mobilize Against Rape And Sexual Abuse In Ogun

On Saturday, a coalition of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) took to the streets of Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, to call for an end to rape and all forms of sexual abuse targeting women.

The campaign, themed “We Condemn Rape and All Forms of Abuse,” was led by the Teen Girls Enlightenment Initiative (TGEI) and supported by around ten other NGOs, according to a statement released on Sunday. Key members of the coalition included the International Federation of Women Lawyers, Less Privileged Children Encouragement Initiative, DM Photography, Teen Boys Enlightenment Initiative, Pishon Initiative for the Less Privileged, Serve and Support Community Initiative, Balkeem Security Services Limited, and Ijebu Rewa, among others.

The sensitization rally lasted about two and a half hours, starting from Ibadan Garage and progressing to Lagos Garage in Ijebu Ode. During the march, participants distributed numerous flyers and pamphlets to raise public awareness about the campaign’s message.

To reach a broad audience, the information was communicated in five languages—English, Pidgin, Yoruba, Igbo, and Hausa—using megaphones, highlighting the campaign’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility.

Dr. Adebusola Okedele, founder of TGEI, emphasized the rally’s goal to raise public consciousness, educate the community, and inspire collective action against the widespread issue of sexual violence.

She stated, “This campaign seeks to unite the community and empower survivors of sexual violence by ensuring they receive adequate support from relevant bodies.”

Dr. Okedele expressed gratitude to the partner NGOs and underscored the importance of continuous advocacy and strong community involvement in combating rape and sexual abuse.

Beyond awareness, the campaign also provided a platform for collaboration among stakeholders, community members, and advocacy groups working together to eradicate sexual violence. She encouraged participants to share what they learned within their communities and to persist in advocating for justice and prevention.

Mrs. Taiwo Olusesi, Chairperson of the International Federation of Women Lawyers, delivered an educational talk highlighting the necessity of preserving evidence following sexual assault and the importance of promptly reporting such cases to the police.

Mrs. Olusesi advised that victims should avoid bathing or changing clothes before reporting the assault to prevent contamination or loss of critical evidence.