By: Theresa Moses
The Tonia Bruised But Not Broken Foundation today flagged off the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence with a solemn and powerful Sit-In Protest at the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Centre, Lagos.
The event brought together mothers, survivors, advocates, legal professionals, civil society actors, and concerned citizens united in one message: justice must prevail for women and girls whose lives were cut short by sexual violence.
According to GATMASH NEWS the atmosphere was heavy with emotion as participants sat in silence, symbolizing the voices of victims who were silenced by brutality and a failed justice system. Their names were called, their stories remembered, and their dignity honoured.
Renowned actress Ego Boyo, celebrated for her timeless contributions to the Nigerian film industry, delivered a heartfelt call for urgent and decisive action to end rape and sexual violence.
Also present was the Director General of the Imo Broadcasting Corporation (IBC), Chief Ify Onyegbule, who expressed strong solidarity with the movement and pledged continued media support to amplify public awareness and accountability.
A representative of the family lawyer of the late Keren-Happuch, whose tragic case remains unresolved, attended on behalf of her grieving mother who continues to seek answers. One placard echoed the family’s anguish:
“Mama Keren-Happuch deserves to know what happened to her child.”
“Today, we sit because they can no longer sit. We speak because their voices were taken. Their fight continues with us,” said Anthonia Ojenagbon, Founder of the Tonia Bruised But Not Broken Foundation, who led the protest.
Victims Remembered at the Protest Include:
- Bamishe Ayanwole
- Ifeoma Abugu
- Omawunmi Olajide
- Cynthia Osokogu
- Barakat Bello
- Christiana Idowu
- Uwaila Vera
- Augusta Osedion
- Iniobong Umoren
- Justina Ukang
- Glory Adekulure
- Ochanya Ogbanje
- Keren-Happuch
… and several others whose families still await justice.
These women and girls were not statistics. They were students, daughters, sisters, and promising young minds whose futures were stolen. The protest underscored that the system has failed too many times—and mothers are tired of burying their daughters.
The Foundation is urging: Law enforcement agencies, The judiciary, Federal and state governments, Religious and community leaders, Civil society organizations and The media to strengthen investigation processes, accelerate prosecution of offenders, and protect survivors of sexual violence.
“Enough delay. Enough silence. Enough excuses.”
This unified cry echoed across the protest grounds as mothers, advocates, and allies demanded urgent reforms to prevent further injustice.
The Sit-In Protest marks the beginning of a lineup of activities for the 16 Days of Activism, aimed at education, advocacy, survivor support, and policy change.
GATMASH NEWS
…News That Drives Impact
For advert placements and business inquiries, kindly reach us via:
📧 Email: [email protected]
📞 Tel/WhatsApp: +234 (0) 807 202 2024
We value your voice! Share your stories, eyewitness reports, and contributions with us anytime:
📲 SMS/WhatsApp: +234 (0) 807 202 2024
📧 Email: [email protected]
Visit us online: https://www.gatmash.com
