By Precious Owolabi, Ado-Ekiti
Wife of the Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, has emphasised the need to actively involve men and boys in efforts aimed at ending gender-based violence and promoting gender equality in the state.
Dr. Oyebanji made the call in Ado-Ekiti during the 2025 Law Week of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Ekiti State Branch, with the theme: “The Evolving Landscape of Human Rights — The Male Ally: Engaging Men and Boys in the Fight Against Gender Justice.”
She noted that genuine human rights and gender justice can only be achieved when men and women work together to uphold fairness and equality.
The First Lady commended FIDA Ekiti for its unwavering commitment to defending the vulnerable and promoting justice with courage and empathy, adding that the role of men as allies is critical to achieving sustainable gender harmony.
Highlighting the state government’s efforts to advance gender equity, Dr. Oyebanji praised Governor Biodun Oyebanji for his sustained support towards women empowerment and social inclusion.
She cited initiatives from her office such as the Widows and Orphans Hope Initiative (WAOH) and the Adire Ekiti Hub, which offer empowerment opportunities, legal aid, and psychosocial support to survivors of abuse.
Dr. Oyebanji, who also chairs the State Gender-Based Violence Management Committee, disclosed that her office, in collaboration with the Ministry of Women Affairs and the Office of the Attorney-General, continues to expand safe spaces and comprehensive support services for victims across the state.
In their goodwill messages, the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Joseph Eribo; the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Dayo Apata (SAN); and other stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to ongoing collaboration with FIDA to strengthen the protection of vulnerable persons and sustain peace in Ekiti State.
They stressed that combating abuse requires collective, consistent, and coordinated efforts, hence the need for all hands to be on deck.
Earlier, the Chairperson of FIDA Ekiti, Mrs. Ayobami Olowoyo-Richard, reaffirmed the association’s dedication to promoting justice, protecting rights, and ensuring equity.
She appreciated partners, sponsors, and supporters for their steadfast support and pledged that the association would continue to expand its reach and respond swiftly to cases of abuse and rights violations.