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Mrs Omobolanle Idowu, Director, Lagos State Employee Wellness Centre
The Lagos State Government has called for policy changes that promote zero tolerance for sexual harassment towards creating a safer and more respectful society for all.
Mrs Omobolanle Idowu, Director, Lagos State Employee Wellness Centre, made the call at the flagship of the First Initiative for Empowering Her, a student-led initiative, aimed at empowering the female child on Friday in Lagos.
The programme, organised by the Student Physiological Association of Nigeria, Lagos State University College of Medicine Chapter (LASUCOM), has the theme, ” Breaking Barriers : Addressing Sexual Harassment and Supporting Girls Through ‘Pad a Girl’ Approach”.
Idowu in her address, titled: “Navigating Mental Health and Trauma For Victims of Sexual Harassment”, emphasised that perpetrators must be held accountable for their actions ensuring justice and consequences.
She said there was a need to promote the culture of consent, empathy and understanding.
Idowu advised on creating a society that values and respects the well-being and dignity of all individuals.
She also highlighted the need for education on the impact of sexual harassment on mental health and trauma.
According to her, sensitisation, awareness and educating the communities about sexual harassment, consent, healthy relationship should be of utmost concern.
On navigating incidents associated with sexual violence, Idowu urged victims to avoid stigmatisation and report incidents to appropriate authorities.
She said, “Victims should immediately seek safety by going to a safe place or shelter, and report the incident to the authorities.
“Victims must seek medical attention which includes a sexual assault forensic exam.
“Victims should also seek therapy through professional guidance and development of coping strategies which includes crisis counselling, rendering emotional support and adequate medical care.”
Idowu noted that healing from sexual harassment trauma takes time, patience and support.
According to her, it requires a safe non-judgemental space to process emotions and develop coping strategies.
Dr Abdulfatai Ojewale, at the Department of Anatomy, LASUCOM, said the institution was committed to address sexual abuse and gender based violence.
Ojewale emphasised on clear anti -harassment policies and enforcements
He also advised on establishment of safe channels for victims to report harassment confidentially. NAN