NGO engages sexual violence survivors

A non-governmental organisation, Soroptimist International, Gwarinpa Branch, Abuja, has given advice and information on how survivors of human trafficking and sexual violence can cope with the trauma.

The group sought to educate the survivors of human trafficking, rape, sexual violence and other traumatic experiences on how to prevent themselves from slipping into depression.

Speaking at a symposium organised in Abuja titled: “Mental Health in Nigeria: Sexual Violence & Rape Impact,” the newly elected President of the Soroptimist, Gwarinpa Chapter, Mrs Edith Oby Obiekwe, said it was especially important that the survivors of the traumatic incidents should not be stigmatised.

Also speaking, the Charter President, Helen Adesanya, also emphasised the importance of not subjecting the survivors to stigmatisation, as this discourages them from speaking out against the perpetrators.

The event, which coincided with the World Day Against Human Trafficking, was well attended by dozens of victims of sexual violence and trafficking and other members of the public.