Spotlight of the Week: Itoro Eze-Anaba – Champion for Survivors of Sexual Violence
A seasoned lawyer and human rights advocate, she founded Nigeria’s first Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC), the Mirabel Centre, in 2013. Her groundbreaking work has transformed the landscape of support for survivors of sexual violence, earning her local and international recognition.
Eze-Anaba’s journey toward creating the Mirabel Centre began during her advocacy for the Domestic Violence Bill, which she personally drafted. In 2003, while working at the Legal Defence and Assistance Project, she encountered a young girl whose harrowing story of sexual abuse by her father and rejection by religious leaders highlighted a glaring gap in support systems for survivors.
This encounter, coupled with her exposure to international best practices during a seminar on sexual violence in Manchester, UK, fueled her determination to create a safe haven for survivors in Nigeria. It took ten years of perseverance, education, and fundraising before the Mirabel Centre opened its doors.
Since its establishment, the Mirabel Centre has provided free medical, psychosocial, and legal support to over 8,000 survivors of sexual violence, ranging from a 3-month-old infant to an 80-year-old woman. The centre not only addresses the immediate medical and emotional needs of survivors but also supports them with long-term solutions, such as assistance with housing, education, and employment.
The Mirabel Centre collaborates closely with law enforcement, offering forensic medical reports that aid in the prosecution of rape cases. Additionally, the centre engages over 25,000 people monthly through social media campaigns, raising awareness about sexual and gender-based violence.
In February 2018, Eze-Anaba received the prestigious Commonwealth Point of Light Award, presented by the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Paul Arkwright, on behalf of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. This recognition was in honor of her unwavering support for victims of rape and sexual assault. The award underscores the global impact of her work and her dedication to creating a safer society.
Eze-Anaba faced resistance and skepticism when she first championed the cause of sexual violence. Many questioned why she was focusing on a “taboo” topic rather than more popular issues like HIV or cancer. Despite these challenges, her unwavering belief in the importance of addressing domestic and sexual violence kept her steadfast in her mission.
Today, the Mirabel Centre stands as a testament to Eze-Anaba’s vision and determination. It has not only provided life-saving services but has also shifted societal narratives around sexual violence. With her work, Eze-Anaba continues to challenge cultural stigmas, empower survivors, and advocate for systemic change.
