Taoreed Abdullahi
To address and eliminate cases of sexual harassment, assault, rape, and other gender-based abuses in tertiary institutions across the country, the students of the Physiological Association of Nigeria at Lagos State University, College of Medicine, Ikeja has organized a one-day sensitization programme.
During the event, various speakers emphasized the importance of students speaking up if they experience any forms of abuse, including molestation and harassment.
The speakers said raising awareness about such issues is crucial to ensuring that perpetrators face appropriate consequences, which can serve as a deterrent to others who may consider engaging in similar acts.
In her presentation, the Director of the Lagos State Employee Wellness Centre, Mrs. Omobolanle Idowu who spoke on “Navigating Mental Health and Trauma for Victims of Sexual Harassment, highlighted that reporting incidents of rape, sexual harassment, and other forms of violence is essential for victims to seek safety, medical attention, and support from groups that offer emotional guidance.
Mrs. Idowu pointed out that if victims do not report such incidents, the trauma could persist, leading to issues such as depression, substance abuse, self-harm, and even suicide due to low self-esteem, shame, and guilt.
In a remark, the Division Police Officer in Ikeja, Mr. Akinwumi Oke outlined the legal consequences for sexual harassment and various forms of sexual violence, which can result in imprisonment ranging from three years to life.
He emphasized the importance of physical evidence and medical examinations in proving cases of abuse beyond a reasonable doubt.
He also informed the audience that over thirty cases of gender-based abuses have been addressed in recent months, resulting in charges against some perpetrators.
He urged the students of Lagos State University to take advantage of the resources provided by the school authority to report any incidents of abuse.
Mr Oke noted that parental interference and cultural barriers within the community had hindered the police’s ability to prosecute cases of sexual abuse and harassment effectively.
The President of the Physiological Association of Nigeria at Lagos State University, Mr Abdul-Rafiu Adebosin sir expressed that the sensitization programme was designed to educate female students about their rights and inform them of the platforms and organizations available to seek justice if those rights are violated.
Mr Adebosin reinforced the school’s stance against sexual harassment, encouraging students to speak out in order to pursue justice.
Other speakers, including Dr. Abdul-Fatai Ojewale, and Dr O. Oyeshikun from Lagos State University, stressed that the institution is committed to raising awareness through workshops and training focused on sexual harassment and abuse.
They reiterated that Lagos State University has a zero-tolerance policy for any form of abuse and has established clear guidelines governing the conduct of staff, lecturers, and students.
They urged students to take proactive steps to report any cases of abuse to the appropriate authorities within the school for immediate action.