PRESS RELEASE: Lagos Deputy Governor, Endorses ‘Breaking The Silence’

In another splendid move, one of the nation’s dedicated Deputy Governors,   Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, Deputy Governor of Lagos state has endorsed Breaking   The Silence the pocket size book on how to break the silence on rape written by the vivacious Esther Ijewere  Kalejaiye, a social entrepreneur and  coordinator  Walk Against Rape (W.A.R).

“The 33-page guidebook titled ‘Breaking The Silence’ by Mrs. Esther Ijewere-Kalejaye could not have come at an auspicious time than this. The author has again joined many other vociferous voices lending to the condemnation of the abominable acts of rape, sexual harassment and various degrees of abuse against our girls.

It is unfortunate that in spite of public outcry, Government’s efforts on the legal instruments, advocacy and sensitization, the perpetrators seem to be increasing by the day. The implication of this is that we all must double our efforts and re-strategize to end this scourge. I appreciate the efforts of Mrs. Esther Ijewere-kalejaye on this pocket-size booklet. I implore other stakeholders to work with the Government to put an end to rape and sexual harassment in our society.’ Said the Deputy Governor of Lagos state, Adejoke Orelope Adefulire.

Adefulire has been a proponent on breaking the silence on rape and also has   been in the forefront for sensitizing the public on rape related issues.

In her foreword for the book, Hon Abike Dabiri opines that "BREAKING THE SILENCE” is emerging at the right time because rape and sexual assault are on the increase and thus “BREAKING THE SILENCE” will hopefully help to forestall further cases of female sexuality violation.

In her words: ‘There is no moral justification for rape because it is against mankind. It thus propelled me to sponsor a bill for an act to eliminate all forms of violence against person. The bill prescribes life imprisonment for rape and a minimum of 20 years for anyone involved in or is an accomplice of gang rape. Hopefully the senate will pass the bill and it will be eventually signed into law by Mr. President. This book covers various topics and teaching points for rape crisis among school, the home and the country at large’

According to the author Esther Ijewere Kalejaiye :’ The handbook will educate and sensitize the society on sexual abuse, the importance of reporting rape cases, where to get help, who to talk to , help lines to call and other vital information on rape and sexual abuse. The book is a “must have” for everyone; Parents, Guardians, Teachers, Students (secondary and tertiary institution.”