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ONDO KICKS OFF 16 DAYS OF ACTIVISM AGAINST GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE
…Focuses On The Growing Threat Of Digital Abuse Against Women And Girls, Others
The Ondo State Government has stepped up efforts to combat gender-based violence, with a strong focus on the growing threat of digital abuse against women and girls.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr. Seun Osamaye, announced this during a press briefing to unveil the activities for the 2025 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. She reaffirmed Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s commitment to eliminating all forms of abuse across the state.
Dr. Osamaye described digital violence as a “silent but devastating” form of abuse that is spreading fast and harming vulnerable groups. She said this year’s theme, “Ending Digital Violence Against Women and Girls,” reflects the Governor’s resolve to ensure technology empowers women rather than exposes them to exploitation.
“Technology should empower, not endanger our women and girls,” she said. “We cannot win the fight against gender-based violence if we ignore online harassment, cyber-stalking, revenge pornography, identity theft, and other emerging threats.”
The Commissioner outlined a series of statewide activities running from November 25 to December 10.
These include the press briefing and the symbolic “Orange the World” illumination at the Ministry headquarters.
An awareness walk and roadshow will take place on November 26. On November 29, law enforcement officers and first responders will receive specialised training on survivor-centered responses.
School and youth sensitisation on consent, cyberbullying, digital safety, and responsible online behaviour will follow on December 1.
The Men and Boys’ Forum under the HeForShe movement will also hold an engagement session on December 1.
A free legal clinic, organised with the Ministry of Justice, the NBA, and FIDA, is scheduled for December 3 to support survivors seeking justice.
A statewide social media marathon and the release of short documentaries on digital gender-based violence will take place on December 8.
The campaign will close on December 10 with cultural displays, recognition awards, and the release of a comprehensive GBV Action Plan communiqué.
Dr. Osamaye stressed that the campaign emphasises inclusiveness.
Planned interventions will reach persons with disabilities, rural communities, market women, students, and survivors who require medical, psychosocial, or economic support.
She added that the Ministry is collaborating with the Ministries of Justice and Health, OSAAGBV, security agencies, UNFPA, UNICEF, NGOs, civil society groups, traditional rulers, disability clusters, and the media.
She noted that the 16 Days of Activism is a global campaign observed in more than 187 countries to raise awareness and inspire action against all forms of violence.
Stakeholders present, including representatives of OSAAGBV, women-focused NGOs, development partners, female appointees of the Governor, and community leaders, praised Governor Aiyedatiwa’s strong political will and expanded empowerment programmes for women.
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