The Creative Actors Initiative for Development (CRAID), AMPLIFY CHANGE.and the Oyo state government are seeking the collaboration of the religious leaders in reducing the morbidity and mortality rates arising from unsafe abortion among women in the 33 local government areas.
The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Oyo state, Mr. Abiodun Aikomo, while declaring open a two-day Sensitisation Seminar on Safe Abortion Care Policies in Oyo state in Oyo town on Wednesday, reiterated the commitment of the government to justice, equity and human rights.
The Attorney General, who was represented at the event by Barrister Oluwayemisi Collins, said, “As a government committed to justice, equity, and human rights, we recognize the importance of aligning legal frameworks with international best practices in reproductive health.
“Safe abortion is not just a health issue but a matter of human dignity, bodily autonomy, and social justice. Ensuring access to safe procedures reduces maternal mortality, prevents unsafe practices, and upholds the rights of individuals to make informed decisions about their bodies.
“The programme serves as a crucial platform for dialogue among stakeholders—including legal experts, medical professionals, civil society, and policymakers—on how we can collectively strengthen legal protections, improve healthcare services, and promote public awareness. It is only through collaboration that we can build a system that is not only lawful but also compassionate and accessible.”
In his address, the Executive Director of CRAID, Dr. Basiru Lasisi, expressed concern over the growing rate of morbidity and mortality resulting from unsafe abortion among women in the country.
He stated that there is a need for active collaboration among the various stakeholders to checkmate the growing rate of deaths arising from unsafe abortion.
According to him, “We have met with different critical stakeholders, including medical personnel, lawyers, government representatives and security personnel.
“Our concern is to reduce morbidity and mortality rates arising from unsafe abortion to zero level.
“This time around, we are meeting with the religious leaders because of the respect that they command among their followers. We are of the opinion that they will take the message to their people as well as correct the erroneous impression that abortion is a sin.”
In his presentation, the Chairman, Association of Nigeria Private Medical Practitioners (ANPMP), Oyo state, Dr. Olumuyiwa Ajanaku, sensitised the people on what Safe abortion is all about and the circumstances under which it can be carried out.
He stated that a Safe Abortion can be carried out when it becomes a threat to the life of a woman.
According to him, “When a woman is battling with a death-threatening ailment, it is advisable that a safe abortion must be carried out.”