WRAHP intensifies campaign against sexual violence in Lagos

By Marvelous Udoruisi

The Women’s Rights and Health Project (WRAHP), in partnership with the African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF), has intensified efforts to combat sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in Lagos State through a free legal clinic aimed at raising awareness and promoting justice for survivors.

The initiative, titled “Protecting Women and Girls from Sexual Violence through Changes in Behaviour, Practices and Attitudes of Community Members in Three Local Government Areas in Lagos State,” is being implemented across Alimosho, Ojo, and Oshodi/Isolo Local Government Areas.

According to WRAHP’s Executive Director,  Bose Ironsi, the project involves the establishment of a community legal and counselling clinic to provide confidential, compassionate, and professional support for survivors. The clinic also serves as an educational platform, equipping participants with knowledge of their rights under laws such as the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act.

Speaking during a recent legal clinic held at the Iba Local Development Council Authority (LCDA) Registry in Ojo, legal practitioner and child rights advocate, Ms. Cynthia Ibi, emphasized the importance of reporting abuse.

“The purpose of this event is to create awareness and encourage people to report cases so justice can be served. “Gender-based violence is a serious offence, and children must be protected. When you see something, say something,” she said.

WRAHP case officer at the Ireti Resource Centre, Ms. Bisola Ogunbiyi, highlighted Lagos State’s zero-tolerance stance on domestic and gender-based violence.

She also introduced a new confidential mobile application that allows survivors to report cases safely.

“The platform can be accessed multiple times without leaving traces on your device, ensuring survivors can report cases safely and discreetly,” she explained.

A participant and volunteer social worker, Mrs. Cecilia Akinlotan, described the clinic as an “eye-opener,” noting that cultural pressures often silence victims of abuse.

“If awareness programmes like this are more frequent, women will find their voices and gain confidence to report cases. This will benefit children and families in the long run,” she said.