ABIODUN URGES SEXUAL ABUSE VICTIMS TO SPEAK UP

In furtherance of the war against gender-based violence in Ogun State, the Wife of the State Governor, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, has reiterated the need for victims of sexual abuse to speak up and seek help in order to get justice and succour, as this would help the victims to heal.

          Mrs. Abiodun stated this when her pet project, Ajose Foundation in conjunction with Spouses of Ogun State Functionaries Association (SOSGFA) and the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development took the advocacy campaign to Christ Apostolic Grammar School, Iperu Remo.

          According to her, it was important to continue with the sensitisation in schools across the State because the students are the future leaders, noting that quality investments would be made in them.

  "Dear students, you are the future leaders and change-makers of our great nation. It is crucial that we equip you with the knowledge and tools to create a society where every individual, regardless of their gender, feels safe, respected, and empowered.

          She appreciated the team of volunteer doctors from US who were on a medical mission to the state, some of whom also lectured the students on guarding against sexual harassment and abuse.

          In her address, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Melutia Ogunremi, lauded the commitment and efforts of the First Lady on gender-based violence in the state, promising the continued support of the Ministry for her office.

          Also speaking, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Mrs. Abosede Ogunleye enjoined the students to shun vices, indecent dressing and pay adequate attention to their studies.

          One of the facilitators, a family nurse practitioner from the US, Mrs. Olayinka Durojaye, advised the students to report any case of harassment to the teachers, parents or whoever could help them out.

          Director, Women Empowerment Services, Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Wonuola Kazeem, in her lecture, admonished the girl students to care for one another and offer help whenever they notice mood changes in their mates, explaining that the changes could be as a result of sexual harassment or abuse they have suffered.

          She emphasised the need to also report cases to the Sexual Assault Referral Centre, (SARC), situated in Olabisi Onabanjo Teaching Hospital, Sagamu through the helpline 08071290703.

          The event also had in attendance the Wife of the Speaker, Ogun House of Assembly, Mrs. Bolanle Oluomo, Wife of the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. Derinola Talabi, among others.