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Oyo State Launches 2025 Campaign Against Gender-Based Digital Violence
First Lady Urges Vigilance Against Online Abuse Among Students
On Thursday, Engr. Tamunominini Olufunke Makinde, the First Lady of Oyo State, officially inaugurated the 2025 global campaign for the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. Speaking at Lagelu Grammar School in Agugu, Ibadan, she emphasized the critical need for young Nigerians to protect themselves from the escalating threat of digital abuse.
Highlighting the campaign’s theme, “Unite to End Digital Violence against All Women and Girls,” Mrs. Makinde underscored the urgency of addressing online harassment, which she described as equally harmful as physical violence.
Recognizing the Impact of Digital Violence
Addressing a large gathering of students, educators, and community leaders, the First Lady warned that violence targeting women and girls has transcended physical boundaries and now pervades the digital realm.
“Violence against women and girls is no longer confined to physical acts; it has expanded into the digital world,” she stated. She urged students to exercise caution online, reminding them that “the internet never forgets; every post, comment, and image can have enduring repercussions.”
Mrs. Makinde cautioned that reckless online behavior can irreparably damage lives, often inflicting profound psychological trauma. “Digital violence silences voices, erodes self-esteem, and in tragic cases, has led to suicide,” she revealed, citing instances where private information or images were shared without consent, resulting in devastating consequences.
Empowering Educators and Strengthening Legal Frameworks
She called on teachers to foster secure learning environments and to actively educate students about online safety. “Equip your students with the knowledge to navigate the internet safely and encourage them to report any form of digital harassment without fear,” she advised school officials.
Reaffirming the state government’s dedication to combating gender-based violence, Mrs. Makinde referenced the 2020 enactment of the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Law (VAPP), which aims to protect all residents from both physical and digital abuse.
“Oyo State acknowledges that gender-based violence, whether online or offline, hinders societal progress. The VAPP Law is a testament to our commitment to safeguarding everyone,” she affirmed. “Let us renew our pledge to eradicate all forms of violence and build a society where every woman and girl can live without fear.”
She also expressed gratitude to Governor Seyi Makinde for his unwavering support of the annual campaign.
Real-Life Stories Highlight the Urgency of Action
In her opening remarks, Hon. (Mrs.) Toyin Balogun, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, shared harrowing accounts of abuse to emphasize the campaign’s importance. She recounted the tragic story of Ochanya Ogbanje, an eight-year-old girl who was repeatedly raped over five years by a relative, ultimately succumbing to complications from the abuse.
Balogun also narrated the case of a 16-year-old girl, referred to as Ibukun, who endured sexual abuse by her father following her mother’s death. The abuse resulted in a premature birth and the infant’s death. “Her father is currently facing prosecution, and we are committed to ensuring justice is served,” she stated.
She warned that digital violence is rapidly becoming more insidious than physical abuse, with millions of women and girls falling victim to online scams, sextortion, and manipulative grooming tactics.
“The digital environment, if left unchecked, poses grave dangers,” Balogun cautioned. She announced plans for the Ministry to launch cybersecurity training and digital literacy programs in 2026 aimed at empowering women to navigate the digital world safely.
To bolster the state’s response, she revealed that the Ministry’s Rapid Response Team (RRT) would be expanded, supported by a quarterly government grant and new resources including vehicles and equipment to enhance swift intervention.
Expert Insights on Technology and Gender-Based Violence
During the panel discussion, Mr. Adebayo Akande, Special Adviser on ICT and E-Governance, highlighted the risks posed by the increasing affordability of technology. “As technology becomes more accessible, young people are more vulnerable to deception and cybercrime. Many boys are being recruited into cybercriminal activities, while girls are often targeted as victims,” he explained.
Professor Solihu Abdulwaheed Adelabu, Commissioner for Establishments and Training, echoed concerns about the digital dimension of violence. “Violence today extends beyond the physical; it is digital. Use your devices responsibly and avoid sharing careless content,” he advised.
Mrs. Christiana Abioye, former Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, stressed the ongoing need to advocate for and protect women and girls. “Our efforts to amplify their voices and defend their rights must be relentless,” she said.
Ayemidara Funke, representing the Police Gender Desk, reassured students of law enforcement’s commitment to support survivors. “Do not endure abuse in silence. Report incidents promptly. We are dedicated to delivering justice for every victim,” she affirmed.
Legal expert Professor Oyelowo Oyewo, former Commissioner for Justice in Oyo State, provided context on international obligations. “Organizations such as the UN, UNICEF, and UNFPA continue to urge nations to strengthen policies against gender-based violence, ensuring safer environments for women,” he noted.
Looking Ahead: Building a Safer Digital Future
As digital platforms become increasingly integral to daily life, Oyo State’s proactive measures-including legislative action, education, and enhanced rapid response capabilities-demonstrate a comprehensive approach to combating gender-based violence in all its forms.
With ongoing collaboration between government agencies, educators, law enforcement, and community stakeholders, the state aims to create a secure environment where women and girls can thrive free from fear, both online and offline.
