A coalition of civil society organisations, non-governmental bodies, human rights activists, and other stakeholders have expressed deep concern over the alarming rate of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence, SGBV, in Osun State.
They called for immediate and concerted efforts to address this pervasive menace.
In a bid to raise public awareness, the group, operating under the aegis of the Movement Against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence in Osun State, visited several churches on Sunday.
Their aim was to urge worshippers to join the fight against all forms of violence in their communities.
The outreach formed part of activities marking the global 16 Days of Activism Against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence, observed annually from 25 November to 10 December.
The theme for the year 2024 campaign is: “End Violence Against Women and Girls, Break the Silence.”
Leading the initiative, the movement’s coordinator, Lola Wey stressed the importance of collective action during a visit to the Methodist Church Nigeria, Ofatedo Junction, and the Cherubim and Seraphim Movement Church, located along the Osogbo-Gbongan Expressway.
She narrated harrowing accounts of abuse suffered by women and children in the state.
Speaking to the congregation at the Methodist Church, Wey disclosed that Osun ranked fourth among Nigerian states with the highest prevalence of SGBV.
In her words, “We must all rise—faithful, clergy, and community members alike—to condemn and combat this growing crisis.”
Recounting an incident in which a 95-year-old woman in Service Area, Osogbo, was raped by a young man, Wey revealed that the elderly victim tragically passed away from the trauma.
She also shared the ordeal of a 65-year-old woman who was attacked while taking her ailing husband to the hospital.
The assailants not only robbed her but also subjected her to sexual violence in the presence of her husband.
“These are not isolated cases. Adolescent girls and teenagers are increasingly being exploited, and we cannot afford to remain silent,” she lamented.
She stressed the importance of government intervention and community action in condemning violence and ensuring that perpetrators face justice.
The activist also highlighted the legal consequences for those who shield offenders.
“Hiding SGBV culprits is a punishable offence under the law,” she stated, urging victims to report cases promptly.
She particularly advised married women enduring domestic abuse to seek help rather than remain in life-threatening relationships.
At the Cherubim and Seraphim Church, the message remained consistent: community participation is crucial to curbing the tide of gender-based violence.
Congregants were encouraged to support survivors and advocate for safer environments for women and girls.
Wey announced that the 16 Days of Activism would officially commence on Monday with a roadshow through Osogbo to sensitise residents further.
“This is not just a campaign. It is a call to action to save lives and secure our communities,” she stated.
She said the movement’s outreach demonstrates a commitment to addressing SGBV at all levels, involving religious, governmental, and community institutions and the coalition hopes to inspire widespread change and foster a society free of gender-based violence.
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