Queen Elizabeth honours anti-rape activist, Itoro Eze-Anaba

It was a tribute to her focus and performance. Arkwright was quoted as saying: “Itoro has shown impressive dedication to supporting victims of sexual assault and rape. She has provided a safe haven for over 2, 800 survivors of this heinous crime and has encouraged thousands of others to break the silence on rape and seek prosecution of perpetrators, reducing their impunity.” Eze-Anaba in 2013 founded Nigeria’s first sexual referral centre, known as the Mirabel Centre, which Arkwright described as “a project of ‘Partnership for Justice’ where rape and sexual assault victims can access free forensic medical and counselling services.” It is a prestigious endorsement. This year, the Queen, as Head of the Commonwealth, will honour one outstanding volunteer from each of the 52 Commonwealth nations with a Commonwealth Points of Light award running up to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in the United Kingdom in April. The beauty of this award is that it celebrates “inspirational volunteers.” It is a powerful statement on the power of selfless individual interventions for the greater social good. The objective is inspiring: “By sharing these stories of service, the Heads of Government meeting will celebrate inspirational acts of volunteering across the Commonwealth and help inspire others to make their own contribution to tackling some of the greatest social challenges of our time.” There is no doubt that sexual assault is a serious social problem, and it is to Eze-Anaba’s credit that her non-governmental organisation has reportedly given support to over 3, 100 rape victims. The organisation’s profile shows its relevance: “The ‘Mirabel Centre’ has established itself as a key service provider for victims of sexual assault in Lagos State, with an increasing number of clients accessing the centre, indicating a growing awareness amongst members of the public of the existence of the centre and the crucial services it provides.” What is the scale of the rape problem? Women At Risk International Foundation (WARIF) offers a glimpse: “Findings from a national survey carried out in 2014 on Violence Against Children in Nigeria confirmed one in four females reported experiencing sexual violence in childhood with approximately 70% reporting more than one incident of sexual violence. In the same study, it was found that 24.8% of females’ ages 18 to 24 years experienced sexual abuse prior to age 18 of which 5.0% sought help, with only 3.5% receiving any services.” Eze-Anaba’s reaction to the award gives an insight into her organisation’s commitment to the anti-rape campaign; it also draws attention to the need for committed anti-rape campaigners. She said: “I am delighted that a Point of Light has been awarded to highlight the importance of tackling rape and sexual assault. Rape is evil, degrading and dehumanising. On behalf of the dedicated, tireless and resolute team that is determined to give voice to the voiceless, strength to the weak and hope to the hopeless, I am sure that this award marks the beginning of a joint effort to uproot this evil that relentlessly battles for our future. This award is a reiteration of our message of NO TO RAPE!” The impact of Eze-Anaba’s Mirabel Centre gives cause for optimism that more rape victims will seek help and receive services. Her award is testimony to the importance of her work, even internationally. She is an inspiration.]]>