GBV: OSUN GOVERNMENT REACTIVATES OPERATION OF SEXUAL ASSAULT REFERRAL CENTRE (SARC)
By Abisola Ariwodola,
Osun state government under the leadership of Governor Ademola Adeleke has approved the reactivation and commencement of operation of Sexual Assault Referral Centre SARC.
The notification of the commencement was made known by the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Women, Children and Social Affairs, Mrs Abimbola Babatunde, who notified stakeholders of the reactivation and full functionality of the Osun State Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) within the State Hospital facility at Asubiaro, Osogbo.
The Permanent Secretary who applauded the state government for being passionate about the welfare of women and children in the state, reiterated that the Ministry of Women Affairs, Children and Social Welfare as the Mother body of the SARC, will ensure that it is optimally utilised based on the objective of its creation.
She added that with the support of the Ministry of Health, Hospital Management Board, the state Ministry of Justice; and law enforcement agencies including the Nigeria Police Force and NSCDC, among others, Osun SARC will serve as a safe and confidential space offering comprehensive support services including medical care, psychological support, legal; aid, and appropriate referrals. It will operates with a multi- agency approach to ensure that survivors receive holistic support to heating and justice, uphold the rights, safety, and dignity of every citizen especially women, children, and other vulnerable groups.
Reiterating the centre as a landmark initiative and a direct demonstration of the unwavering commitment of the Executive Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, she said the SARC is a safe, confidential, and survivor-friendly space established to provide comprehensive support for victims of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV).
“Survivors will have access to Immediate medical care, forensic services, Psychosocial and trauma counselling, Legal advice and representation, Law enforcement support and case follow-up among others.”
Appreciating donors and Non-governmental organisations in the state, country and International community for efforts which aided the resuscitating of the Osun State Sexual Assault Referral Centre, “we therefore count on your partnership and collaborations to ensure the effective utilization and sustainability of the Centre.”
She called on the general public to take ownership of this initiative. “If you or anyone you know is experiencing sexual or gender-based violence, do not remain silent. Speak up. Report. Get help. Justice is within reach.”
The statement added further that communication regarding inter-agency collaboration, referral pathways, and stakeholders’ engagement will follow shortly.” Thank you for your continued support in creating a safer Osun for all.
Together, we must continue to say NO to gender-based violence in Osun State. Let’s join hands to create a society where everyone—regardless of gender or age, can live free from fear and harm, the statement concluded.
Sexual Assault Referral Centre just as the standard, used by states in Nigeria and the International community is supervised by Office of First Lady, manned by the Ministry of Women Affairs, Children and Social Welfare, with the support of the Ministry of Health, Hospital Management Board, Ministry of Justice, Security Agencies and Non-governmental organisations on GBV matters among others.
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