Groups, CSOs demand justice for sexual violence survivor Hadiza Baffa

A coalition of concerned citizens, gender rights advocates, civil society organisations (CSOs), women’s groups, and human rights defenders across Nigeria has made a call for justice in the ongoing case involving Hadiza Musa Baffa and the former Minister of Special Duties, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, SAN.
In a statement signed on Friday by the Programme Coordinator, Reach Out Africa Charity Initiative (ROACI) Nigeria, Mrs. Amina Olutayo, described Hadiza’s ordeal as a harrowing account of alleged repeated sexual abuse, emotional manipulation, and systemic silencing by a former government official.

According to her, disturbing revelations emerging from court proceedings indicate that Hadiza endured eight forced abortions and is currently involved in a paternity dispute over her surviving child—after years of alleged abuse.
The group emphasised that despite sustained efforts to suppress the case through intimidation, legal technicalities, and institutional manipulation, Hadiza has remained unwavering in her pursuit of justice.
Mrs. Olutayo added that the recent ruling by the Magistrate Court rejecting Turaki’s bid to halt a DNA test marks a pivotal moment—not only in Hadiza’s case but for survivors of abuse across the country.

“This is not just a personal matter; it is a national emergency,” she stated.
The coalition stressed that the abuse of power and status to exploit, silence, and discard vulnerable women must no longer be tolerated. This case exposes the entrenched culture of impunity enjoyed by powerful men in Nigeria—particularly those who misuse public office to evade accountability.
The group called for immediate intervention and monitoring by CSOs and human rights organisations to ensure Hadiza’s safety and legal protection.
The provision of legal aid, psychological support, and safe shelter for Hadiza and others like her. Public condemnation by women’s groups, bar associations, and legal advocacy platforms to deter future abuses, the group said.”
This is not about political affiliations or personal vendettas,” the statement reads. “It is about protecting the dignity of Nigerian women and standing up against institutional abuse. No woman should ever be forced to choose between silence and survival.”

As the hashtag #JusticeForHadiza continues to trend on social media, the coalition urged that it must not fade into another fleeting moment of outrage.
They called on the conscience of Nigeria’s civil society to stand firmly with Hadiza and ensure that her courage is not punished—but protected and the world is watching. Nigeria must not fail her.
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