The First Lady of Oyo state, Mrs Tamunominini Makinde, on Friday, led a rally of women from different walks of life against sexual and gender-based violence, calling for an immediate end to all forms of violence.
Governor Makinde’s wife made the call during the 16 days of activism rally against sexual and gender-based violence tagged: “UNITE! Activism To End Violence Against Women And Girls”, organised by the Oyo state government in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and Centre For Population And Reproductive Health (CPRH).
The rally saw the First Lady and other women moved from Oyo state government secretariat to Favours Bus-stop, Bodija, and finally to Akinyele settlement center, Akinyele local government area of the state.
While speaking, Mrs Makinde said “We are on this rally because we want an end to sexual and gender-based violence. We want an end to this violence at our place of works, schools, and homes. We want an end to Female Genital Mutilation.
“Our girls are out there injured and oppressed. We want them to speak out against every form of oppression and victimization. Sexual violence is preventable and also unacceptable. Our girls and women have suffered enough of emotional and psychological damage. We want it to end.
She also presented about 150 hygiene kits and support materials to the dwellers of Akinleye settlement center and gave reasons.
She said: “We chose this place because we are trying to send a message that even thought they are weak and vulnerable they are important, they should not be
victims of sexual violence or any form of violence.
“We are here to show them support through the help of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and Centre For Population And Reproductive Health (CPRH) who made all of these available. I appreciate them for their care and support.”
Speaking on behalf of the Center for Population and Reproductive Health, Professor Oladosu Ojengbede appreciated the Oyo State Government and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) for the collaborative effort towards making sure there is end to sexual and gender based violence in the community.
Others dignitaries present at the rally includes, the wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs Akinbola Lawal, Commissioner of Women Affairs, Hon. Kafilat Olayiwola, the Akinyele Local Goverment Chairman, Hon. Taoheed Adedigba, the Alakinyele of Akinyele, Oba James Odediran, among others
