A stage play on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), titled Ajose, has reignited conversations around molestation, rape and other forms of gender-based violence, urging Nigerians to break the culture of silence that enables abuse.
The performance, organised by non-governmental organisation Vision Spring Initiatives, used drama and storytelling to expose the painful realities faced by survivors of sexual violence and the damaging effects of silence, stigma and fear within society.
Through emotional scenes and relatable characters, Ajose challenged audiences to reflect on the importance of speaking out, seeking justice and standing in solidarity with victims of abuse.
A panel discussion held after the performance brought together experts in public health, law, psychology, media and human rights advocacy, who described sexual abuse as a persistent challenge in Nigeria requiring collective action.
The panelists stressed that survivors must be protected, believed and given access to appropriate support services.
They also underscored the role of education in advancing sexual and reproductive health rights, noting that young people need accurate information on consent, personal safety and healthy relationships to reduce vulnerability to abuse.
Panel members, including Jonah Ogbeide, Sarah Oshisanya, Ololade Awaye of the Women Advocates Research and Documentation Centre (WARDC), Kikelomo Oduyebo of the Network of Reproductive Health Journalists of Nigeria, and legal practitioner Chizelu Emejulu, called on educational institutions to function as safe spaces where cases of abuse can be reported without fear of stigma or retaliation.
The discussion further urged parents, guardians, religious leaders and policymakers to challenge harmful cultural norms that promote silence, while advocating stronger enforcement of laws against sexual violence and increased investment in counselling, survivor rehabilitation and reporting mechanisms.
Speaking during the event, Kikelomo Oduyebo reaffirmed the commitment of the Network of Reproductive Health Journalists of Nigeria to sustained advocacy and public awareness on sexual and reproductive health issues.
Organisers of the initiative pledged to continue leveraging creative platforms such as theatre to promote dignity, safety and justice, particularly for women and young people, describing Ajose as a powerful call to collective action against gender-based violence.