Mind Impact for Motivation Initiative (Project MIMI), in collaboration with the Ibadan Hilltop Lions Club, District 404B4, on Thursday took its rape and childhood cancer awareness campaign to the office of the Wife of the Oyo State Governor, Mrs Omini Makinde.
The awareness walk featured students carrying placards with messages including, ‘My body is my own; stop molesting it sexually.’ ‘Stop intimidating us into silence,’ and ‘Rape is a danger to our education.’
The group praised the efforts of the First Lady in curbing child abuse and protecting vulnerable children.
Speaking during the event, Project Mini Coordinator, Mrs Olukemi Oshiyemi-Cole, called for an end to rape, sexual molestation and intimidation of children.
She urged parents, guardians and members of the public to remain vigilant, stressing that children could be abused by people they know, including family members, neighbours, friends, colleagues and other trusted individuals.
Cole warned that sexual abuse could have serious and lasting consequences for children, including emotional trauma, disruption to their education and other health challenges.
She urged parents to pay close attention to changes in their children’s behaviour and to create an environment where they feel safe speaking out.
‘It is high time we stopped rape and sexual molestation among young people. We must also put an end to the intimidation that forces victims into silence.
‘Children are vulnerable, and no one should take advantage of their age or trust. Parents must be careful and watch over their children. Nobody should be left out of this responsibility-not uncles, aunties, brothers, sisters, cousins, neighbours or colleagues,’ she said.
She also encouraged schools and communities to intensify education on child protection and sexual abuse prevention.
Also, President, Ibadan Hilltop Lions Club, District 404B4, Mrs Adebisi Sofunde, said the initiative was aimed at saving lives, protecting children and ensuring that cases of abuse are identified, reported and addressed promptly.