The Faculty of Law, Thomas Adewumi University has taken a bold step towards safeguarding women and girls in its host community by organizing a community sensitization programme on Digital Gender-Based Violence (DGBV). The event, held at the palace of the Oloko of Oko-Irese, Oba Victor Oluwafemi Olawuyi, drew an impressive turnout of women and girls, including the Olori of Oko-Irese, Olori Abosede Grace Olawuyi.
The sensitization programme, themed “Break the Silence: Stop Digital Violence Against Women and Girls in Oko-Irese Community,” aimed at raising awareness, educating participants, and strengthening collective action toward ensuring safer digital spaces for women and girls in the community.
Speaking during the event, representatives of the TAU Faculty of Law emphasized the growing prevalence of digital harassment, cyberbullying, online exploitation, and other forms of technology-enabled violence, stressing the urgent need for empowerment and education at the grassroots level. Participants were enlightened on their rights, digital safety practices, and proper channels for reporting online violations, including the services provided by the TAU Law Clinic.
The initiative aligns with the United Nations 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, observed annually from 25th November to 10th December, under the global theme: “Unite to End Violence Against Women and Girls.” The programme was also held in collaboration with the Network of University Legal Aid Institutions (NULAI) and various law clinics across Nigeria, reflecting the university’s commitment to global advocacy and community engagement.
According to the TAU Law Clinic, the institution had actively participated in the global campaign through its official social media handle, @taulawclinic, before taking the sensitization offline to directly engage women and girls in Oko-Irese. Over 40 participants attended the outreach, benefiting from practical guidance on recognizing digital threats, protecting personal information, and seeking legal support when their rights are violated.
The presence of the Oloko and the Olori added prestige to the event, underscoring the community’s support for efforts to eliminate violence against women and girls. His Royal Majesty expressed appreciation for the university’s commitment to promoting safety, awareness, and empowerment within the host community.
Also in attendance were 300-level and 400-level law students, alongside their lecturers, who contributed to the interactive session and provided participants with simplified legal education and demonstrations.
The outreach further reinforces Thomas Adewumi University’s reputation as a forward-thinking, socially responsible, and impact-driven institution, committed not only to academic excellence but also to community development and advocacy for human rights.
