The Elegant Nurses Forum has condemned the alleged assault of former Ilebaye Odiniya and her siblings, calling for justice, protection for the victims, and a thorough investigation into the incident.
In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Nurse Thomas Abiodun Olamide, the group described videos and reports circulating on social media as “painful, heartbreaking and unacceptable in every sense.”
The forum said violence against women and children should never be tolerated, regardless of the identity or relationship of the alleged perpetrator.
“Violence against women and children must never be normalised, excused or tolerated under any condition,” the statement read.
“It does not matter whether the offender is a husband, boyfriend, relative, parent, friend or person of influence. Abuse remains abuse, and violence remains violence.”
The group expressed concern over what it described as emotional distress, visible injuries, and cries for help allegedly captured in the videos.
According to the statement, “No woman deserves to live in fear. No child deserves to grow up in an environment of intimidation, brutality and emotional trauma.”
The forum further warned that domestic violence often leaves lasting psychological and physical consequences on victims and families.
“Domestic violence destroys lives silently. It damages mental health, breaks families, traumatizes children and in many cases leads to permanent injury or death,” it stated.
The organisation called on the Nigeria Police Force, the Ministry of Women Affairs, human rights groups, and other relevant authorities to launch what it described as a “comprehensive and unbiased investigation” into the matter.
Among its demands, the group called for immediate protection and safety for Ilebaye and her siblings, prosecution of anyone found culpable, and access to medical care, counselling, and psychological support for the alleged victims.
The forum also urged stronger enforcement of laws protecting women and children from domestic violence across Nigeria.
“The culture of silence surrounding family violence must end,” the statement added.
“Too many women have suffered in silence because society often pressures victims to ‘respect family reputation’ instead of seeking justice. This dangerous culture has protected abusers for too long.”
The group stressed that parenthood should never be used as justification for violence or oppression within the family.
“Justice must prevail in this matter. Nobody should be above the law,” the statement concluded.
