This Day Article – October 2025
Dear Reader,
Welcome to the WARIF Survivor Stories Series, a monthly feature where stories of survivors of rape and sexual violence are shared to motivate and encourage survivors to speak their truth without the fear of judgment or stigmatisation and to educate the public on the sheer magnitude of this problem in our society. The Women at Risk International Foundation (WARIF) is a non-profit organisation set up in response to the extremely high incidence of rape, sexual violence, and human trafficking of young girls and women in our society. WARIF is tackling this issue through a holistic approach that covers health, education, and community service initiatives.
WARIF aids survivors of rape and sexual violence through the WARIF Centre – a haven where trained professionals are present full-time, 6 days a week, including public holidays, to offer immediate medical care, forensic medical examinations, psychosocial counselling, and welfare services, which include shelter, legal aid, and vocational skills training. These services are provided FREE of charge to any survivor who walks into the Centre.
Healing beyond the hurt: My Journey with WARIF
My name is Ifesowapo, and I am a 19-year-old girl. I came to the WARIF Centre for medical assessment, treatment, and counselling after my brother reported a case of child sexual abuse to the police.
About six months ago, I relocated to Lagos to live with my elder brother and his wife following the death of my mother—my only surviving parent—who passed away after a long battle with cancer that depleted our family’s savings. My brother, who is my only sibling, lost his job during that period and began selling akara (bean cakes) by the roadside to support his family and me.
Determined to secure a better future for me, he enrolled me as an apprentice at a tailoring shop in our neighbourhood while he saved towards my higher education. We shared an apartment with one of his friends, Michael, who often came home late at night, so I barely knew him.
A few months later, during a public holiday, Michael offered to take me out to explore the city, and my brother consented. While at the mall, he asked me to be his girlfriend. I declined, explaining that I was still a minor. He assured me that it would only be a platonic friendship, so I agreed.
Over time, Michael became friendlier whenever he was around, and I gradually became more comfortable with him. During the Yuletide season, he brought me a few items as Christmas gifts, which I happily showed to my brother. Since they had been childhood friends, my brother thanked him for his thoughtfulness.
A few days later, we hosted a small house party. After some time, my brother and his wife retired to bed, leaving Michael and me chatting in the living room. He offered me a drink, assuring me it was non-alcoholic. Shortly afterwards, I began to feel light-headed and decided to retire to my room, while he also went to his.
I woke up to feel something heavy on my body, and it was Michael. He forcefully raped me while I tried to push him away. I screamed for help, and my brother and his wife rushed into my room, finding him trying to put on his robe. My brother was furious. Michael pleaded, claiming he was tipsy and did not know how he entered my room or removed his clothes.
My brother refused to accept Michael’s excuses, firmly telling him that such reasoning would imply he could also claim to be tipsy and harm his wife in my brother’s absence. No amount of pleading could change his mind. We went to the police to report the incident, and Michael was subsequently arrested. The police referred us to the WARIF Rape Crisis Centre for medical assessment, treatment, and psychosocial support.
The case was charged in court, and the last hearing went well. I remain hopeful that justice will be served and that the perpetrator will be held accountable for his actions.
At the WARIF Centre, I received comprehensive medical care — including assessment, treatment, laboratory tests, and counselling services — all at no cost. I am deeply grateful for the support I received, especially the counselling sessions, which were truly life-changing. My counsellor reassured me that it was not my fault and helped me rebuild my confidence and sense of self-worth. I also learned valuable coping strategies that supported my healing journey.
Through group therapy, I connected with other survivors and found comfort in knowing I was not alone. These sessions gave me strength, resilience, and a renewed sense of belonging. Looking back, I can proudly say that I have made remarkable progress — emotionally, mentally, and psychologically.
It has now been a year and six months since that traumatic incident. I have written my JAMB exams, surpassed the cut-off mark for my preferred course, and gained admission into one of Nigeria’s prestigious universities to study Pharmacy. I am excited to begin this new academic journey and determined to make my brother and everyone who supported me proud.
During my most recent follow-up visits to the Centre, I felt truly balanced — emotionally, mentally, and psychologically. My goal now is to become the best version of myself and to stand as an advocate against gender-based violence.
To the entire WARIF Team — thank you. Your compassion, care, and unwavering support changed my life. I wouldn’t be here today without you. You are truly the best.
*Real name of the survivor changed for confidentiality
Dear survivor, please know that you are not alone, and it is not your fault. Help is available. If you have been raped or know someone who has, please visit us at:
The WARIF Centre
6, Turton Street, off Thorburn Avenue, Sabo, Yaba.
or call our 24-hour confidential helpline on
0800-9210-0009
