Abeokuta: The Ogun State Economic Transformation Project (OGSTEP) has recently conducted a training session for 86 journalists and media practitioners, focusing on the effective reportage of Gender-Based Violence (GBV).
According to News Agency of Nigeria, this training was organized by the Gender unit of OGSTEP in Abeokuta.
The event, themed ‘Strengthen GBV Response Through Collaboration Learning and Safe Guarding Standard,’ aimed to bolster the state’s efforts in combating gender-based violence. Mrs. Mosunmola Owo-Odusi, the Project Coordinator of OGSTEP, highlighted that the training is part of the program’s intervention to support the state’s initiatives by establishing referral pathways for sexual assault incidents. She noted the successful rehabilitation of four sexual assault referral centers across the state and the equipping of two centers to provide safe spaces for survivors.
Mrs. Oluwatoyin Orelaja, a facilitator at the training, emphasized the necessity for journalists to have a comprehensive understanding of GBV, its manifestations, and its impact on survivors. She urged journalists to prioritize survivors’ needs to prevent further traumatisation and to be cautious in their language and protection of survivors’ identities.
Another significant contribution came from Mrs. Ewajesus Fasina, a gender specialist for OGSTEP, who discussed the media’s influential role in shaping public opinion and outcomes related to GBV. She revealed that a significant percentage of Nigerian women had experienced physical violence from a young age and stressed the importance of journalists focusing on relevant legislation to enhance their reporting.
Mr. Damola Lapite, a legal practitioner, addressed the legal aspects of GBV reporting, underscoring the importance of confidentiality and obtaining survivors’ consent. He encouraged journalists to strive for accuracy, fairness, and equity in their stories.
The training was well-received by the participants, with Mr. Akeem Adegbenro expressing gratitude to OGSTEP for the invaluable insights gained on effective GBV reporting.