Osogbo:A non-governmental organization, The Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Justice Advocacy Network (SJN), has called for media collaboration to enhance ethical reporting on reproductive health issues in Nigeria. The appeal was made during a training session for journalists and content creators in Osogbo, focusing on Rights-Based Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) Reporting.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, the National Coordinator of SJN, Ms. Jerome Uneje, emphasized that the training aimed to educate journalists on the national Safe Termination of Pregnancy (STOP) guidelines and to promote a rights-based approach to reporting on reproductive health. Uneje highlighted the importance of reporting through a human rights lens to protect survivors of sexual and gender-based violence, such as rape and incest, and those facing mental and physical health challenges.
Uneje urged journalists to prioritize the protection of survivors by obtaining informed consent without coercion. She explained that the guidelines were developed to facilitate access to safe pregnancy termination for women who require it and to encourage healthcare providers to use these guidelines as a procedural reference.
Facilitator Mr. Olufemi Olusola noted that the initiative seeks to domesticate the STOP guidelines, ensuring that women understand their rights and medical practitioners can deliver appropriate care. The guidelines, launched in September 2023, outline the legal framework for pregnancy termination in Nigeria, addressing common misconceptions about the legality of abortion and advocating for safe medical practices.
Olusola advised survivors of sexual abuse and those with foetal abnormalities to seek medical care at government facilities, where safe termination of pregnancy is legally available. He stressed the dangers of resorting to unqualified practitioners, which can lead to severe complications. Additionally, Olusola pointed out that women with serious medical conditions should consult professionals for suitable options, which may include medically indicated pregnancy termination.
The SJN network, comprising women’s rights groups, media practitioners, and other stakeholders, works to combat sexual and gender-based violence, promote reproductive rights, and reduce maternal mortality across Nigeria.