Written by: Dr Kemi DaSilva-Ibru and Gloria Joacquim
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 Betrayal to Strength: Maliya’s Journey of Survival and Healing
My name is Maliya. I am 24 years old, and on that day, I woke up unaware that my life was about to change forever.
I had recently relocated to Lagos after reconnecting online with a former school friend. In search of better job opportunities, I accepted her encouragement to move, and she kindly agreed to accommodate me temporarily while I tried to find my footing. Sadly, after a misunderstanding arose between us, I made the difficult decision to leave her home.
With nowhere else to go, I remembered an uncle, a distant relative my late parents had visited years earlier. I did not have his contact details, but I recalled the area they once described. Holding on to hope, I set out to find him.
I spent hours searching in a suburb of Lagos, but my efforts were unsuccessful. Tired, hungry, and stranded, I approached a man who owned a nearby boutique and asked for assistance. He did not know my uncle, but he appeared kind. He offered me refreshments and allowed me to rest briefly in his shop.
As evening fell and I was still unable to locate my uncle, the man offered me a place to stay for the night, saying I could continue my search the next morning. With no other options and feeling vulnerable, I accepted.
That night, he expressed romantic interest in me, which I clearly declined. The next day, my search again yielded no results. When I returned, he continued to present himself as helpful, offering food and allowing me to remain in his home.
That night, despite my clear refusal and without my consent, he raped me. He raped me twice before morning. I was left deeply traumatised, overwhelmed by fear, shame, confusion, and self-blame. He later apologised and made false promises of marriage, which only deepened my distress. I blamed myself for trusting someone I barely knew.
The following morning, I contacted my friend and told her everything. After I described the location, she immediately came to meet me and took me to the nearest police station to report the assault. From there, we were referred to the Women at Risk International Foundation (WARIF) for medical care and psychosocial support.
At WARIF, I was treated with compassion, professionalism, and dignity. I received medical assessments, treatment, and a forensic examination. I also began psychosocial counselling to help me cope with the trauma, anxiety, fear, shame, guilt, and recurring flashbacks.
Through counselling, I was reassured that what happened was not my fault. My counsellor helped me process my emotions and supported me as I began my healing journey. After my initial sessions, I experienced relief and gained greater emotional clarity.
I also participated in WARIF’s group therapy sessions, where I met other survivors. Connecting with women who had similar experiences gave me a sense of belonging and renewed confidence. I learned healthy coping strategies and slowly began to move forward with hope and purpose.
With the support of the police, the perpetrator was arrested. Investigations revealed a pattern of abuse involving other women, and the case was charged to court. Legal proceedings are ongoing, and I remain confident that justice will be served.
Six months later, my life has taken a positive turn. I have secured employment with a multinational company and am thriving in my role. I am currently staying with my friend, whose support has been vital to my continued healing.
I am deeply grateful to the staff and team at the WARIF Centre for their compassion, professionalism, and unwavering support to survivors like me. Your work restores hope, dignity, and strength, and reminds us that healing is possible.
*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
