By Isaac Olufemi
In a bid to stem the tide of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and promote Human Rights (GHR), the Oyo State chapter of the Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS (NEPWHAN) has taken its advocacy campaign to the Alegongo community in Lagelu Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The intervention, held on June 23, 2026, was spearheaded by a consortium of Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) under the Community-Led Monitoring (CLM) project, specifically the Global Fund Nigeria TB/HIV Reach Impact (CLM-GF NThrip).
The participating organizations included the Family Counselling Centre (FCC), the Primary Health Care and Health Management Centre (PriHEMAC), and the Redeemers Aids Initiative for People and Community (RAPAC).
The outreach, which targeted nursing mothers and community members, aimed to bridge the knowledge gap regarding what constitutes GBV and the available legal protections for victims.
Representing the Oyo State Ministry of Justice, the Gender Desk Officer, Barrister Ifeoluwa Ogunremi, provided a comprehensive breakdown of the various forms of GBV.
She highlighted that violence extends far beyond physical abuse to encompass financial, emotional, and economic
exploitation, as well as harmful traditional practices. “It is essential for citizens to understand that they have the right to dignity and protection under the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Law and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” Ogunremi stated. She urged victims to utilize support systems, listing the Nigeria Police Force, the NSCDC, the SGBVRT, and the Family Counselling Centre as viable channels for reporting.
The Head of the Human Rights Education Department at the National Human Rights Commission, Oyo State, Mr. Onilari Babatunde while Adding to the discourse emphasized that while women and girls are disproportionately affected, men and boys are not immune to GBV.
“We must shatter the silence,” Babatunde urged, noting that many cases go unreported due to fear.He assured residents that the Commission is equipped to handle reports confidentially and effectively, encouraging a community-wide effort to prevent violence.
Meanwhile During the session, Community Right Advocates (CRAs) from NEPWHAN distributed their contact details to attendees, facilitating direct access to support and case management. Participants—including both mothers and fathers—were encouraged to reach out for assistance whenever necessary.
It was further Observers at the event noted that despite ongoing advocacy efforts, awareness regarding GBV and human rights remains significantly low in many rural and semi-urban communities, making the intervention a timely and critical development for the residents of Lagelu.
