SWS takes gender violence advocacy to Ero community in Ifedore LG
The Stand Up for Women Society (SWS) has extended its gender violence advocacy to Ero community, where it sensitised pupils and students on the issue.
The sensitization took place at the community hall in Ero, located in the Ifedore Local Government Area of Ondo State.
The advocacy session aimed to educate primary and secondary school students on the various forms of gender violence, equip them with knowledge on prevention, and inspire them to become active change agents within their community.
In her presentation, the Chief Executive Officer of the Restoration of Dignity of Womanhood, Mrs. Olabisi Omolona, explained that gender violence refers to violence against both females and males.
Omolona, who was represented by her programme officer, Mrs. Adedoyin Patrick, took the time to explain various types of gender violence, ranging from physical, verbal, emotional, and psychological abuse to sexual violence and harassment, among others.
She urged the students to become advocates for change and join the fight against gender-based violence in order to make society a better place.
The Regent of the Ero Community, Princess Aderonke Gbadesogun, commended SWS for the initiative, expressing her gratitude for bringing such valuable training to the community.
She urged the students to report any form of violence they encounter and to be their brothers’ and sisters’ keepers, encouraging them to share the message with their families as well.
The State Chairperson of SWS, Alhaja Rafat Momoh, highlighted the importance of the sensitisation, explaining that the visit was intended to educate the community about the menace.
Momoh stressed the significance of understanding the causes, prevention methods, and the role of students as change agents in their community.
“We are glad that the students were eager to learn, with one of them asking if they could be like us.
That shows the impact of this session,” she added.
She informed the gathering about the existence of the Young Liberators, which she said would soon be inaugurated at the secondary school to engage students at a young age.
While appreciating the participants and the regent of the Ero kingdom for their patience throughout the programme, the Vice Chairperson of SWS, Hon. Oreoluwa Agbayewa, explained that the goal of the visit was to reach the students at an early age and equip them with the necessary knowledge to address gender violence.
Agbayewa emphasised the importance of the students utilising the training to make positive changes.
Mrs. Ajibola Olubunmi also urged the students to avoid mocking individuals with disabilities and to always speak out in cases of rape.
This, she stated, has an adverse effect on those in such conditions and may make them feel different, which could discourage them from feeling included.
The State Secretary of SWS, Mrs. Fatima Muraina, emphasised the need to speak out so that perpetrators of gender violence could be brought to justice.
“Do not allow anybody to intimidate you. Instead, reach out to someone you trust or can speak with.
“Always feel free to inform your king, the regent, who is the mother of all, so that you can be protected,” she said.
According to Muraina, gender violence has become humanity’s worst enemy and can come in many forms, with the perpetrator sometimes being the father or even the teacher.
She also stated that the organisation moved to sensitise the community because it is particularly vulnerable, with such acts often being recorded there.
She encouraged them to speak with officials from reputable non-governmental women’s organisations whenever they have the opportunity, such as the advocacy visit conducted.
Present at the occasion were teachers and staff members from both Community Primary School and the Anglican Grammar School in the community.
