The wife of Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, has called on students of tertiary institutions to steer clear of drugs and other harmful behaviors that could contribute to gender-based violence (GBV). Speaking on Thursday during her sensitization visit to Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science, and Technology (BOUESTI), Ikere Ekiti, Dr. Oyebanji emphasized that GBV is a major societal issue that hinders the socio-economic development of a nation.
The visit was part of activities for the ’16 Days of Activism against GBV,’ and Dr. Oyebanji stressed the need for collective action in addressing gender violence. “GBV is a monster that must be relentlessly tackled for the good of society,” she said, underscoring that such violence must be condemned, especially within academic environments.
She commended BOUESTI authorities for their zero-tolerance stance on GBV and their proactive approach to tackling the issue and other social vices. “This institution has taken the challenge head-on,” she noted, urging students to avoid behaviors that could lead to anti-social conduct and violence, particularly drug use.
Dr. Oyebanji also encouraged students to speak out when they witness any form of abuse, reiterating that there should be no silence or excuses for any form of GBV. She further highlighted the initiatives taken by the Ekiti State government in 2023 to address the issue, ensuring that steps are being taken to minimize, if not eliminate, GBV in the state.
The Vice Chancellor of BOUESTI, Prof. Olufemi Adeoluwa, praised the First Lady for her advocacy, noting that her efforts in addressing gender violence have had a significant impact both within Ekiti State and nationally. He linked the rise in GBV to the increasing abuse of drugs, which is now widespread even among teenagers. He emphasized the importance of the First Lady’s visit, which he described as timely, to help curb the rise of GBV in higher institutions.
Ekiti State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dayo Apata (SAN), also spoke at the event, stressing the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to eradicate GBV. He highlighted the state’s legal framework for tackling gender violence and encouraged students and the public to become more aware of these laws.
In a similar vein, the Ekiti State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Adeniran Akinwale, reiterated the police force’s commitment to enforcing the law and ensuring gender equality. He assured that perpetrators of GBV would be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
The visit marked another step in Ekiti State’s ongoing efforts to raise awareness and take decisive action against gender-based violence.
