In a groundbreaking move, the Ogun State Government has commissioned a new Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) in Ijebu-Ode, as part of its efforts to curb sexual assault and Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in the state.
The SARC, funded by the World Bank through the Ogun State Economic Transformation Project (OGSTEP), aims to provide a comprehensive support system for survivors of sexual assault and GBV. This includes medical care, counseling services, legal aid, and rehabilitation programs.
At the commissioning ceremony, the Wife of the Governor, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, emphasized the importance of men exercising self-control and desisting from harmful behaviors towards women and girls. She noted that the first SARC, launched three years ago in Sagamu, had provided vital services to hundreds of survivors.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Adijat Adeleye, described the SARC as a landmark step towards creating a society where survivors can live without fear of discrimination. The centre also features Women Development Centers, which provide skills training in areas such as upholstery making and furniture crafting.
The OGSTEP Project Coordinator, Mrs. Mosunmola Owo-Odusi, highlighted the importance of protecting women as a key factor in fostering economic development and inclusiveness.
The commissioning of the SARC in Ijebu-Ode is a significant milestone in Ogun State’s efforts to combat sexual assault and GBV. As the state continues to work towards creating a safer and more supportive environment for survivors, this centre serves as a beacon of hope for a brighter future.
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