Shortly after delivering my lecture today, I granted the floor to a team of social crusaders and human rights advocates who spoke to my year one students on critical issues surrounding gender-based violence, particularly rape and the utilization of the Sex Offenders Register.
The guest speakers, Yohanna Rachel and Mrs. Ugochi Freeman, provided guidance on what legally constitutes consent, making it clear that any individual below the age of 18 cannot give lawful consent to sex, as recognized by Nigerian law. They emphasized the need for students to understand, respect, and uphold personal boundaries, and to speak out and report any form of abuse or violation without fear or shame.
The session also addressed common misconceptions around rape. Students were firmly told that no circumstance or behavior justifies sexual assault, and were advised to avoid situations or environments that could predispose them to such risks. The speakers encouraged them to challenge stigma, support survivors, and embrace safe, respectful conduct in all relationships. The interactive sensitization ended with a questions and answers session, followed by light refreshments.
