Groups, CSOs demand justice for sexual violence survivor Hadiza
A coalition of gender rights advocates, civil society organisations (CSOs), women’s groups and human rights defenders has called for justice in the case involving Hadiza Musa Baffa and Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, former minister of special duties.
In a statement on Friday, Amina Olutayo, programme coordinator of Reach Out Africa Charity Initiative (ROACI) Nigeria, described Hadiza’s experience as a harrowing account of alleged repeated sexual abuse, emotional manipulation and systemic silencing by a former government official.
Olutayo said court proceedings have revealed that Hadiza endured eight forced abortions and is currently in a paternity dispute over her surviving child after years of alleged abuse.
The group said attempts to suppress the case through intimidation, legal technicalities and institutional manipulation have failed to deter Hadiza from seeking justice.
Olutayo noted that the magistrate court’s recent rejection of Turaki’s bid to stop a DNA test was a pivotal moment not only for Hadiza’s case but also for survivors of abuse across Nigeria.
“This is not just a personal matter; it is a national emergency,” she said.
The coalition said abuse of power to exploit and silence vulnerable women must no longer be tolerated.
They added that the case exposes a culture of impunity enjoyed by powerful men who misuse public office to evade accountability.
They called for immediate intervention and monitoring by CSOs and human rights groups to ensure Hadiza’s safety and legal protection.
The coalition urged the provision of legal aid, psychological support and safe shelter for Hadiza and other survivors.
They also called for public condemnation by women’s groups, bar associations and legal advocacy platforms to deter future abuses.
“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 trends on social media, the coalition said the campaign must not fade into another fleeting moment of outrage.
They called on civil society to stand with Hadiza and ensure her courage is protected, saying the world is watching and Nigeria must not fail her.
