A gender expert, Mrs. Ewajesu Fasina, has asked journalists, content creators, and media professionals to always show care and protect the rights of people who have suffered from gender-based violence when sharing their stories.
She explained that ignoring the rights of survivors can cause lasting harm to their reputation and mental health. It could even lead to depression or death for some people.
Fasina made this appeal in Abeokuta, Ogun State, on Friday during a meeting with stakeholders. The event, focused on handling gender-based violence cases properly, was organized by the Gender Unit of the Ogun State Economic Transformation Project and the Ministry of Women Affairs.
She stressed how sensitive these cases are and urged journalists to always get consent, keep information private, and treat survivors with respect.
When writing about these cases, it’s important to get permission, protect people’s identities, and avoid causing them more pain,” she said.
Fasina added that journalists have a big influence on how people understand abuse. Their reports should support and encourage survivors, not make them feel worse.
She shared a report from the Ministry of Women’s Affairs and Social Development, showing that 28% of Nigerian women aged 25–29 faced physical violence as early as age 15. She also said one in ten boys has experienced sexual abuse.
Fasina reminded the audience that journalists have the power to influence legal cases through their reporting. She said they should look at every part of a story—health, security, and legal angles.
That’s why we are working closely with the media on this issue. Without the media’s help, we cannot win the fight against gender-based violence. Journalists have the best position to understand and tell these stories well,” she added.
She also said that about 86 people from different media outlets—radio, newspapers, blogs, and social media—were invited to the training. This was to include both traditional and new media so that everyone is involved.
Also speaking, Adedamola Lapite, who leads the Child Protection Network in Ogun State and the Spring Centre for Sexual Assault Referral, urged journalists to earn survivors’ trust and avoid reports that could hurt them again.
He said, “Journalists are seen as the voice of society. Their stories should support and encourage survivors, not bring them down.”
Lapite also explained that children under 18 cannot legally give consent for sex. Just like they can’t vote or drive, the law protects them from being used or harmed sexually.
He advised journalists to check facts and speak with experts before reporting on gender-based violence. Wrong or careless reporting, he warned, can cause serious, lasting damage.
Mrs. Mosunmola Owo-Odusi, the OGSTEP Project Manager, praised the journalists at the event. She encouraged them to use what they learned to improve how they report on gender-based violence in Ogun State.
She said, “Your work is very important. With your support, we can change how people see this issue, protect those who are vulnerable, and make sure justice is done.”
