The Wife of the Ekiti State Governor, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, on Thursday led a street sensitisation walk across major roads and markets in Ado-Ekiti to raise awareness on the dangers of digital violence, as part of activities marking the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.
The walk, themed “Unite to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls,” attracted top government officials, civil society organisations, political office holders and other stakeholders, all advocating for a safer digital environment.
Addressing participants, Dr Oyebanji expressed concern over the rising cases of cyberbullying, especially against women, noting that some individuals not only perpetrate online abuse but also reinforce it by supporting offenders. She warned that anyone caught promoting or engaging in digital violence would face the full weight of the law.
The First Lady, who also chairs the Ekiti State Gender-Based Violence Management Committee, condemned the circulation of harmful online content, describing it as destructive and capable of causing psychological trauma, damaging reputations and exposing victims to economic losses.
She stressed that creating a safe online space is essential, adding that every individual, regardless of gender, deserves freedom of expression without intimidation. According to her, the psychological impact of cyberbullying can be even more severe than physical abuse.
Reiterating her commitment to safer digital practices, Dr Oyebanji called for stronger collaboration among government agencies, media practitioners, civil society organisations, technology companies, parents, traditional rulers, religious leaders and young people to curb cyber violence.
Also speaking, the Ekiti State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Dayo Apata (SAN), noted that laws already exist to prosecute offenders, urging residents to refrain from actions that violate cybercrime regulations.
The walk was attended by the Deputy Governor, Chief Monisade Afuye, alongside other senior government officials.
