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.
From Silence to Strength: Beatrice’s Journey of Healing and Hope
My name is Beatrice, a 26-year-old woman whose life was forever changed by a traumatic experience. In my darkest hour, the unwavering support of my family and the compassionate care of Women at Risk International Foundation (WARIF) became my source of strength, healing, and renewed hope.
During the yuletide season, I reconnected with a former schoolmate, Franklyn, who had been my senior in school. We met at an event, and he invited me to visit his home. Trusting our past acquaintance, I agreed. When I arrived, I met Shirima, Franklyn’s business partner, and their boss, Abdullahi. The three of them shared the apartment.
Not long after my arrival, Abdullahi left the house with his young daughter. Franklyn and Shirima then stepped outside, explaining that they needed to talk. Franklyn later returned alone, while Shirima locked the door from outside. A deep sense of unease crept over me. I knocked repeatedly on the door and pleaded to leave, but no one responded.
About an hour later, Abdullahi returned and unlocked the door, only to lock it again behind him. He confronted me aggressively, questioning my presence. When I insisted on going home, he ordered me to cooperate. I refused. In response, he beat me with a television cable, forced me onto the bed, and, together with Franklyn, they took turns raping me until they were satisfied. When they were done, they threatened to kill me if I ever spoke about what had happened and then allowed me to leave.
When I finally returned home, my family had been desperately searching for me. My mother immediately noticed the injuries on my face. Though I initially lied out of fear and shame, I later confided in my sister, who informed our parents. Without hesitation, my family took me to the police station to report the crime. The police referred us to the WARIF Centre, where I was received with care and compassion. That same day, all three perpetrators were arrested.
At the WARIF Centre, I received free medical treatment and comprehensive psychosocial support. Before counselling, I was overwhelmed by sadness, anger, guilt, and self-blame. Through consistent counselling sessions, my counsellor helped me understand that what happened to me was not my fault. I learned healthy coping mechanisms and slowly began my journey toward healing. Monthly group therapy sessions at the Centre also played a vital role in my recovery, helping me feel less alone and allowing me to connect with other survivors who understood my pain.
The case was charged in court, and legal proceedings are ongoing. More than a year later, I enrolled in a postgraduate marketing programme and have since been promoted at my workplace. Today, I can confidently say that I have healed emotionally, psychologically, and mentally.
I am profoundly grateful to Women at Risk International Foundation (WARIF) for its professionalism, compassion, and unwavering commitment to survivor care. WARIF gave me more than support—it restored my hope, preserved my dignity, and gave me the courage to move forward with my life.
*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
