Over 150 women groups and civil society organizations have come together to call upon the Lagos State Government to reinstate the Guidelines on Safe Termination of Pregnancy for Legal Indication.

These guidelines were initially implemented in June 2022, aiming to provide a safe avenue for abortions in cases of rape and incest.

The guidelines, introduced to prevent avoidable deaths among women, faced suspension by the Lagos State Government in July 2022. This decision has sparked concern among advocacy groups, leading to a collective plea for the restoration of these crucial guidelines.

During a virtual press conference held yesterday, a board member of the Women Advocates Research and Documentation Centre, Dr. Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, expressed deep concern over the prevailing high rates of rape and incest in society. She emphasized how this denial of women’s sexual and reproductive rights is a pressing issue.

Dr. Akiyode-Afolabi highlighted the contrast with neighboring Benin Republic, where safe abortion is permitted in cases of incest and rape. She stressed that abortion in circumstances of physical and mental health is not unlawful in Benin Republic, urging Lagos to reconsider its stance.

“Every day, people are getting pregnant when they cannot take care of the child,” she said.

To amplify their call for action, Dr. Akiyode-Afolabi launched a petition during the webinar, aiming to gather support for the reinstatement of the guidelines.

She revealed shocking statistics, stating that in 2017 alone, 212,000 women, out of an estimated two million annually who had abortions, sought treatment for complications. Tragically, 285,000 did not receive the necessary care for the severe health consequences they faced.