Ondo Flays Rising Cases Of Digital Abuse Targeting Women

By Ayodele Oni

The Ondo State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development has emphasized the urgency of tackling the rising cases of online harassment, cyberstalking, revenge pornography, and other forms of digital abuse targeting women and girls.

The commissioner for women affairs, Seun Osamaye, spoke in Akure, while unveiling

16-day programme of activities to mark the 2025 global campaign against gender-based violence, themed “Ending Digital Violence Against Women and Girls.”

Speaking ahead of the official flag-off scheduled for 25th November, the Commissioner stressed that technology should empower  not endanger  women and girls.

According to her, the government is intentionally spotlighting digital violence this year because it is “silent, pervasive, and often overlooked.”

She pointed out that tthe fight against gender-based violence cannot be effective if digital violence is ignored.

The 16-day campaign, running from 25th November (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to 10th December 2025, will feature a series of activities aimed at raising awareness, strengthening response systems, and fostering collective action across the state.

Parts of the programme include: Awareness walk and roadshow across major streets of Akure, Specialized training for law enforcement officers and first responders on survivor-centered approaches; school and youth sensitization on consent, cyberbullying, and online safety.

Others are Engagement with the Men and Boys Forum under the HeForShe initiative,

Free legal clinic in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice, NBA, and FIDA and Statewide social media marathon and release of short documentaries on digital GBV.

Dec 10: Grand closing ceremony featuring awards, cultural performances, and the release of a GBV Action Plan communiqué.

Dr. Osamaye added that the campaign will prioritize inclusion, with targeted activities for persons with disabilities, rural communities, market women, and survivors in need of medical, psychosocial, and economic support.

The Ministry is collaborating with key partners including the Ministries of Health and Justice, the Nigeria Police, NSCDC, UNFPA, UNICEF, CSOs, traditional rulers, media organisations, and disability groups to ensure statewide reach and impact.