Last week, the Comfort Empowerment and Advocacy Foundation (CEAF) visited Gemini Bethel Schools, Oke Ira, Ogba, Lagos State, as part of its ongoing School Drive Project, themed “Sexual Abuse Prevention.”
The program began with an engaging ice breaker and a short drama on bullying, handled by Ms. Temi Akran, which set the tone for the day. The children were advised to speak out to reliable adults or parents about any form of bullying around them. Their voices should be heard in order to get help. During the impactful session, students were engaged in an eye-opening presentation where abuse was clearly defined, and its various forms were explained. The students were taught how to identify different red flags, no matter how minor they may be, to understand grooming tactics, and, most importantly, to recognize that abuse is never their fault but that they just have to speak out when it happens and seek help.
The main presentation was delivered by Mrs. Chineberem, who gave a powerful session on what sexual abuse is, highlighting the types of abuse such as physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, and exploitation. She also discussed a few ways out of abuse, including:
* speaking out early to a trusted adult
* reporting to school authorities
* avoiding secluded or unsafe places
* and understanding personal boundaries.
Most importantly, she emphasized the need to speak up when anything feels wrong.
The session also covered:
* Safe people to report to
* Practical ways to avoid compromising situations
Students were encouraged to ask questions, and the Question and Answer session revealed just how important such conversations are in our schools today.
During the Q&A session, emotions ran deep as one pupil courageously came forward to share her painful ordeal. She spoke about the abuse she suffers from her aunt at home, revealing scars on her body as evidence. She wept and expressed her desire to return to her parents. The principal’s attention was immediately called, and he assured CEAF that with their support, necessary actions would be taken to ensure the child’s safety and well-being.
The highlight was not just awareness—but empowerment. At CEAF, we believe every child has the right to safety, dignity, and a voice.
We thank the school management for their support and look forward to more engagements across schools.
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