The Ogun State Government has commissioned a new Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) in Ijebu-Ode, as part of its efforts to curb sexual assault and Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in the state. The centre was launched through the Ogun State Economic Transformation Project (OGSTEP), funded by the World Bank.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the Wife of the state Governor, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, emphasized the importance of addressing GBV in the state. She noted that most cases of sexual assault are perpetrated by men, urging them to exercise self-control and desist from harmful behaviors towards women and girls.
Mrs. Abiodun highlighted the success of the first SARC, launched three years ago in Sagamu, which has provided medical, legal, psychological, and social support to hundreds of survivors. She reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to expanding access to these vital services across the state.
The Wife of the Governor also commended the implementation of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law, which has given survivors a voice, empowered communities to stand against perpetrators, and ensured that offenders face the full wrath of the law.
Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Adijat Adeleye, described the initiative as a landmark step, noting that the SARC is not just a physical structure but a symbol of hope, healing, and resilience.
Hon. Adeleye implored stakeholders, including government institutions, civil society organizations, community leaders, and individuals, to unite in the fight against sexual violence and create a society where survivors are empowered, perpetrators are held accountable, and everyone lives free from fear and discrimination.
The Commissioner also announced that Women Development Centers have been established within the SARC to empower survivors and other women with skills such as upholstery making, furniture crafting, and monogramming.
In his goodwill message, the Commissioner for Finance and Chief Economic Adviser, Mr. Dapo Okubadejo, emphasized that the Ijebu-Ode SARC was designed as a comprehensive support hub, offering medical care, counseling services, legal aid, and rehabilitation programmes for survivors.
Gender-Based Violence Focal Coordinator for Africa (West & Central), Pamela Chebiwott Tuiyott, lauded the state government for its commitment to reducing the stigmatization of survivors, assuring that the facilities were of quality and commending the collective efforts that made the project a reality.
The OGSTEP Project Coordinator, Mrs. Mosunmola Owo-Odusi, explained that OGSTEP is a multi-sectoral initiative with interventions in Skills Development, Agriculture, and Public Sector Reforms, emphasizing that protecting women and addressing GBV are paramount to fostering economic development and inclusiveness.
The Chairman, Ijebu-Ode Local Government, Hon. Dare Alebiosu, represented by his Vice, Hon. Adeyemi Titilayo, expressed appreciation for the establishment of the SARC in their domain, describing it as a safe haven for survivors of GBV and commending the Prince Dapo Abiodun-led administration for its unwavering support for women…. Suitable headlines
