Lagos – Epe

Date of branch inauguration: September 15, 2022

2022 – 2024

Chairperson – Ifeyinwa Awagu

Vice-Chairperson – Eseri E. Olanrewaju

Secretary – Uchenna Ogwo

Asst. Secretary – Cynthia I. Igwebuike

Financial Secretary – Love Ekele Braide

Treasurer  – Ifenyinwa Uzoamaka Aneke

Welfare Secretary – Kriss-Njoku Genevin

P.R.O – Omoluabi N. Atinuke

ASSISTANT P.R.O – Ogechi Olisa-Mokelu

2024 – 2027

Chairperson – Uchenna Ogwo

Vice-Chairperson – Genevin Kriss-Njoku

Secretary – Ogechi Olisa-Mokelu

Asst. Secretary – Felicitas Aigbogun -Brai

Financial Secretary – Blessing Abii

Treasurer  – Onyinye Isikwei

Welfare Secretary – Ejus Ekpo

P.R.O – Ontinye Isikwei

ASSISTANT P.R.O – L-R Iboro Akai

Investiture of Our Chairperson Emerita, Olufunke Oladitan-Oduwole, as the 68th President of the International Women’s Society (IWS) Nigeria & the Executive Committee for the 2026 Service Year

The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria, Epe Branch, proudly congratulates our esteemed Chairperson Emerita, Mrs. Olufunke Oladitan-Oduwole, on her investiture as the 68th President of the International Women’s Society (IWS) Nigeria.

Mrs. Olufunke is a distinguished leader and passionate advocate for women’s rights and welfare across Nigeria. We have no doubt that her tenure will bring meaningful impact to women, children, and the broader community.

As she takes on this significant role, we look forward to increased collaboration and progress in protecting, empowering, and advocating for women’s rights while upholding justice.

Congratulations once again, and we wish her divine grace, wisdom, and strength throughout her presidency.

FIDA Epe Branch Leadership:
Mrs. Uchenna Ogwo – Chairperson
Mrs. Genevin Kriss-Njoku – Vice Chairperson
Mrs. Oge Mokelu – General Secretary
Mrs. Onyinye Happiness Isikwei – Publicity Secretary
Mrs. Uchenna Akingbade – Member
Elders of the Branch:
Your Honor Omosalewa Onilenla
Mrs. Omolara E. Jinadu
Mrs. Abimbola Oyefeso
Madam Bose Ajayi
We also extend our appreciation to all FIDA members from other branches who continue to support and champion the cause of justice and equality.

Womanifesto Calls for Respect for the Rule of Law, Gender Equality, and Independence of the Legislative Arm

The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), led by Mrs. Philomena Nneji, National Finance Secretary, and a coalition of over 350 civil society organizations united under the banner of Womanifesto, demands that all state actors unequivocally respect the independence of the Lagos State House of Assembly. The coalition calls for an immediate cessation of all forms of coercion or intimidation aimed at influencing the Assembly’s operations.

This statement was made during a press conference held on Wednesday in Ikeja, where the group addressed the urgent crisis currently affecting the state’s legislative body.

Dr. Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, co-convener of Womanifesto and Executive Director of the Women Advocates Research and Documentation Centre, stressed that state actors must allow elected representatives to carry out their duties without fear of external interference. She emphasized that this is crucial to maintaining the integrity of democracy.

The call to action follows recent troubling developments surrounding the election of Rt. Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda as the new Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly. These developments included an unwarranted invasion of the House by members of the State Security Service.

Fidan Abimbola, Chairperson of the Lagos branch, and other FIDA members, in a brief interview, reiterated their position: “We affirm that the actions leading to the removal of Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa and the subsequent election of Rt. Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda fully comply with the constitutional provisions outlined in Sections 92 and 96, which govern the removal of a Speaker and the election of a new one. We stand resolutely in support of the constitutional procedures endorsed by the majority of the members of the Lagos State House of Assembly. These actions reflect the integrity of the legislative process and the will of the people, as expressed by their elected representatives.”

The coalition further highlighted that the ascension of Rt. Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda as the first woman Speaker in Lagos State is a pivotal achievement in Nigerian politics. It represents a significant step toward gender equity in political leadership and serves as a powerful inspiration for women and girls across the nation. FIDA, civil society organizations, and devoted citizens of Lagos strongly support her leadership and demand that all stakeholders respect the constitutional process and the legitimacy of her position.

Fidan Abimbola continued, “Let it be clear: leaders of civil society organizations and proponents of the rule of law stand firmly behind Rt. Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda as the officially recognized Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly. We call on all stakeholders to uphold the constitution, champion the rule of law, and support leadership that truly reflects the best interests of Lagos State and the aspirations of women and girls across Nigeria.”

Women constitute half of Nigeria’s population and are indispensable stakeholders in the development and governance of the state. It is time for their voices and leadership to be fully recognized and represented at the highest levels of governance.

FIDA Epe was represented by Isikwei Onyinye, Publicity Secretary. Other FIDA members present at the event included:

Mrs. Nnenna Eze, Chairperson FIDA Ikeja
Lady Edith Uduji, Chairperson FIDA Badagry
Mrs. Abimbola Jack-Oladugba, Chairperson FIDA Lagos

The coalition firmly believes that the respect for the rule of law, the promotion of gender equality, and the independence of the legislature are vital to the continued progress and development of Lagos State and Nigeria as a whole.

FIDA EPE CHAMPIONS A MOVEMENT TOWARDS THE INTERNATIONAL DAY OF ZERO TOLERANCE FOR FEMALE GENITAL MUTILATION 2025: “STEPPING UP THE PACE”

On February 6, 2025, the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) was observed with a powerful advocacy event at The Health Center, Majek, Ajah, Lagos State.

The theme for this year’s observance, “Stepping Up the Pace: Strengthening Alliances and Building a Movement to End FGM,” echoed the urgent need to eradicate this harmful practice and ensure a future free from gender-based violence for girls and women worldwide.

This year’s advocacy event focused on raising awareness, educating the community, and calling for stronger action against FGM. The program brought together healthcare professionals, community leaders, and FIDA survivors, who shared their personal stories and insights into the devastating impact of FGM—both physically and emotionally. The event also emphasized the critical role that hospitals and healthcare workers play in offering support to those affected by FGM and working toward prevention through education and proper care.

The health center staff, expectant mothers, grandmothers, women, and girls participated in a series of workshops and discussions led by our branch Chairperson, Mrs. Uchenna Ogwo, and Her Worship Omosalewa Onilenla (member of FIDA Epe Branch). These sessions aimed to explore the cultural, social, and medical aspects of FGM. Special attention was given to how healthcare providers can help identify cases early, offer compassionate care, and guide survivors on their recovery journey. The collaboration between medical professionals and local communities is crucial for changing mindsets, combating misinformation, and breaking the cycle of FGM.

Survivors of FGM also took the stage to share their journeys of resilience and recovery, inspiring others to speak out and demand an end to this harmful tradition. Their courage underscored the importance of creating safe spaces for survivors and offering not only medical care but also psychological and emotional support.

This year’s theme, “Stepping Up the Pace: Strengthening Alliances and Building a Movement to End FGM,” is a call to action for everyone—from healthcare workers to policymakers and community advocates—to work together in eradicating FGM. It is not just a health issue but a human rights issue, deeply rooted in gender inequality and discrimination. Ending FGM requires a comprehensive approach: education, legislative changes, community engagement, and healthcare responses that prioritize the well-being and dignity of women and girls.

At FIDA Nigeria Epe Branch, we are committed to being part of this transformative change. Our participation in this advocacy event is just one step in our broader mission to end FGM and ensure that girls and women everywhere can live free from violence, empowered to fulfill their potential.

We call on all individuals and institutions to join the global movement to #EndFGM. By standing together, we can create a world where FGM is no longer a reality, and every girl and woman is free to live her life without fear or harm.

Together, let’s advocate for change. Let’s empower futures. Let’s end FGM.

FIDA Epe Celebrates International Day of the Girl Child with Advocacy Visit to Ethos Crest School

FIDA Epe marked the International Day of the Girl Child by engaging in a meaningful child advocacy visit to Ethos Crest School in Ajah. The school’s proprietor warmly welcomed the delegation, led by Chairperson Mrs. Olufunke Oduwole, expressing gratitude for FIDA’s commitment to celebrating and empowering children.

During the visit, Mrs. Oduwole introduced the FIDA Epe team and shared insights about the organization—its mission, work, and the significance of celebrating the International Day of the Girl Child.

The Vice Chairperson, Sotonye Amachree, and the Public Relations Officer, Mrs. Ogechi Olisa-Mokelu, led a thought-provoking discussion on this year’s theme, “Girls’ Vision for the Future.” The session was interactive, with an engaging Q&A segment where the children actively participated.

To further support the educational growth of the students, FIDA Epe presented notebooks and water bottles to all participants, along with two books donated to the school’s library.

This initiative underscores FIDA Epe’s ongoing commitment to advocating for girls’ rights and creating awareness around their potential and future aspirations.

FIDA Nigeria Epe Engages Sangotedo Community in 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence

As part of the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, FIDA Nigeria Epe Branch took its advocacy campaign to the Sangotedo area of Lagos State on December 5, 2024. The event witnessed an impressive turnout of men and women eager to learn about their rights and take action against gender-based violence (GBV).

During the sensitization session, the FIDA Epe team educated community members on the importance of speaking up for themselves and for others who may not have a voice, challenging harmful norms, fostering mutual respect, promoting gender equality, and creating a society free from violence and discrimination.

The session was highly interactive, with participants engaging in discussions, asking pertinent questions, and receiving insightful responses from the legal experts present. To further support the community, a legal clinic was conducted at the end of the program, providing attendees with free legal advice and assistance.

The event was led by the Vice Chairperson of FIDA Epe, Sotonye Amachree, alongside other dedicated FIDA members committed to the fight against GBV.

FIDA Nigeria remains steadfast in its mission to protect, promote, and preserve the rights of women and children, ensuring access to justice and advocating for a society where everyone can thrive free from violence.

#FIDAEpe #FIDACares #EndGBV #SpeakUp #16DaysOfActivism

THE DAY OF THE AFRICAN CHILD

FIDA Nigeria Epe commemorated the Day of the African Child with a hosiptal outreach to our adopted ward -The Pediatric Ward ,Eti-Osa Maternal And Child Care Center , Ogombo , Ajah ,Lagos .
The Medical Director ,Dr. Mustapha Quadri while welcoming FIDA Epe thanked and appreciated the branch for it’s generosity and good will towards children and women .

In her opening remark , Mrs . Ogechi Olisa-Mokelu the PRO , FIDA Epe who led the delegation emphasized the need to take stock and reflect on the progress and challenges that affect the realization of the rights of children in Africa . She encouraged us all to continue celebrating the strength , bravery and resilience of the African child while educating all children in Africa .
She also charged the medical personal not to relent in putting their best foot forward in ensuring that the children under their care are given the best professional care with love and patience .

The management team of the hosiptal assured us that they would continue to do their best in the discharge of their duties . They also thanked FIDA Epe for bringing gifts for the children and women in the ward and by extension the hospital .

The visit ended with a tour to the ward to visit the patients and inspect the Air conditioners and fans the branch donated last year . We handed over the gifts we brought for the patients and took pictures .
#FIDAEpe #FIDACares#DayoftheAfricanChild

IGNITING CHANGE SERIES WITH FIDA EPE

On the 6th of May, 2024, FIDA Nigeria Epe branch held the maiden edition of the IGNITING CHANGE SERIES WITH FIDA EPE.

IGNITING CHANGE SERIES WITH FIDA EPE is an online monthly event where we discuss topical issues. It was introduced to help us gain more visibility, publicity and drive membership.

For the maiden edition, we discussed UNDERSTANDING THE DYNAMICS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, EXPLORING CONTRIBUTORY FACTORS AND PATHWAY TO PREVENTION.

We had two FIDANS, Sotonye Amachree ( Vice Chairperson, FIDA Epe) , Her Worship Onilenla Omosalewa Are (President Maroko Customary Court )as panelists while the PRO Ogechi Olisa-Mokelu was the moderator .

The Panelists took bites on the topic from different perceptive. Mrs. Amachree from the perceptive of a litigator, arbitrator and mediator who interfaces with victims of domestic violence while Her Worship Onilenla Omosalewa Are spoke from the perceptive of a bencher.

We had over 30 attendees who joined from different parts of the country. We grew our online followers, increased visibility and from the feedback we got, women were happy and thankful for this great initiative.

FIDA Nigeria Epe Branch Forges Strategic Alliance with Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) to Combat Gender-Based Violence

On Friday, February 23rd, 2024, FIDA Nigeria Epe branch, under the adept leadership of our Chairperson, Olufunke Oduwole, embarked on a courtesy visit to the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA).

The purposeful engagement resulted in the desired outcome, as both organizations pledged their unwavering commitment to fortifying collaborations aimed at eradicating gender-based violence.

FIDA Epe’s First Law Week: Empowering Minds, Illuminating Paths.

FIDA Epe’s Maiden Law Week was held on Tuesday 5th ,December 2023 at KFA Event Center , Lekki , Lagos .

The theme for the Law Week “Violence against Women: Accountability in Community Efforts to Empower Women and Girls” was throughly discussed from different perspectives . The keynote speaker C. V. C Ihekweazu (SAN) concentrated on the legal framework and explored the laws in place to end the scourge while making recommendations.
The three panelists DCP Monday Agbonika, Onilenla Omosalewa Are and Ms Meg Isebor spoke from the angles of expertise. From the police family support units through counselling beyond the law, and the place of family in instilling the right values, gender-based violence would be eliminated.

FIDA Nigeria Epe emphasized on the need for communities to be aware of their responsibilities in order to fight this menace .

VISIT TO ST. KIZITO HOSPITAL

In rounding up the 16 days of activism, FIDA Epe set out on a grass root advocacy outreach to St. Kizito Hospital , Jakande , Lagos where we sensitized girls and women on the menace of violence and abuse and the need to speak up.
FIDA Epe preached zero tolerance to all forms of violence against women and girls as it looks forward to a future free from violence against women and girls .
The Management and staff of were gald that we came and pledged their support for more collaborations .

FIDA NIGERIA EPE BRANCH TOOK ACTIVISM TO THE RADIO HOUSE

On the 7th of December, 2023 FIDA Nigeria Epe branch took activism to LAW FM 103.9 in commemoration of the 16 days of activism against gender based violence.

FIDA Nigeria Epe branch was represented by the Chairperson Mrs. Olufunke Oduwole ; Vice Chairperson Mrs. Sotoye Amachree ,General Secretary Mrs. Uchenna Ogwo , PRO Mrs. Ogechi Olisa-Mokelu and the Project Committee Chair Ebinimi Eafrogha .

The radio advocacy gave us the opportunity to create awareness while sensitizing the public on some of the challenges women face and ways to prevent same.

FIDA Epe preached prevention and zero tolerance to all forms of violence against women and children as this we believe will make a transformative difference in the lives of women and girls .

Members of the public called in with questions and appreciated FIDA for its service to humanity

FIDA NIGERIA EPE BRANCH KICKS OFF 16 DAYS OF ACTIVISM WITH A COURTESY VISIT TO STAKEHOLDERS.

On the 30th Day of November 2023, FIDA Nigeria Epe branch commenced the commemoration of the 16 days of activism with courtesy visits to our stakeholders – the police.

We visited the DPO of Ilasan Police Station, Jakande – S.P Olurunfemi Shem and the DPO of Ajiwe Police Station –O. Ken- Golden and created awareness within the environs of the police stations.

The Vice Chair Mrs. Sotonye Amachree who led the delegation spoke on the need to create awareness and strengthen collaborations in order to curb the menace of Gender based violence against women and girls in our communities and society at large. We believe collaboration is a must as FIDA Epe cannot do the work without the assistance of the police force.

The DPOs pledged their support and readiness to collaborate with FIDA Epe in seeing that Gender based violence is curbed .They appreciated FIDA Epe for the pro bono cases done so far.

FIDA Nigeria Epe Branch Empowers Girl Child on International Day with Digital Literacy Pep Talk

On October 11, 2023, FIDA Nigeria’s Epe branch marked the International Day of the Girl Child with an inspiring pep talk held at Attwool Sunflower School in Ologolo, Lagos.

This year’s theme, “THE DIGITAL GENERATION, OUR GENERATION,” took center stage as participants delved into the crucial topic of “Navigating the Digital Space for a Greater Future for the Girl Child.”

Mrs. Ogechi Olisa-Mokelu, the PRO, initiated the pep talk by highlighting the significance of technology and digital literacy in today’s rapidly evolving professional landscape. Stressing the importance of equipping the girl child for growth in the digital space, she emphasized that technical proficiency is essential for proving one’s worth and assuming leadership roles in this digital generation.

The PRO articulated FIDA’s commitment to opening up opportunities, creating new avenues, and building partnerships that empower the girl child. This includes sensitization efforts and collaborations aimed at providing greater access to education, employment, and entrepreneurship.

Central to the strategy is the establishment and encouragement of digital platforms for empowerment, training, and mentorship. These platforms equip the girl child with essential tools to successfully navigate the digital space, positioning herself for a brighter future.

The session included a lively question and answer segment, and thoughtful gifts were presented to the students. The school management expressed gratitude to FIDA Epe for dedicating time to educate and encourage their pupils, underscoring the positive impact of such initiatives on the community.

FIDA Nigeria Epe Branch remains steadfast in its mission to empower and uplift the girl child, fostering a generation capable of thriving in the digital era.

Day Against Trafficking in Persons 2023

On the 30th Day of July 2023, FIDA Nigeria Epe Branch ably led by our Chairperson, Mrs. Ifeyinwa Awagu commemorated the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons with a webinar.

This year’s theme “ Leave no one behind “was extensively discussed from different perspectives by our array of seasoned panelists.

The Country Vice President of FIDA Nigeria, Mrs. Amina Suzanah Agbaje while kicking off the webinar emphasized the need to open the space for partnerships and make efforts at changing the narrative in our environment if we must win the war against world trafficking.

The second panelist, Mary Agbu looking at the role family and education plays in human trafficking said that the disintegration of the family, poverty, and lack of virtues and values are some of the factors aiding trafficking. We must sensitize, educate and bring back our core values so that individuals will be able to identify, resist and rise up to say No to trafficking.

Chylian Azuh, a survivor of human trafficking and a returned migrant from Libya looked at the theme from the survivor’s perspective. In her words, Victims sometimes do not know they are being trafficked but think they are being helped. There is a need to support rescued victims and reach out to policymakers who can make changes in the existing laws against trafficking.

While speaking from the perspective of the media, Gloria Ireka saw the need for media houses to collaborate more with stakeholders in other to educate and sensitize the public as we collectively fight against human trafficking.

We must make a resolution to evangelize against human trafficking in order to put an end to it.

Day of the African CHILD

FIDA-Nigeria Epe branch celebrated the Day of the African Child with a debate at the Child of Promise Primary School Ajah, Lagos State Exploring the theme of 2023, “The Rights of the Child in the Digital Environment,”  . The pupils interrogated “The African Child: Navigating the 21st Century successfully.
They highlighted how technology has improved health facilities and eradication of diseases, how Children are abusing the use of technology, and how these affect families negatively. They also pointed out how Elearning holds a better future for the African Child. However, those in the local communities cannot access technology.

In her opening remarks, Mrs. Sotonye Amachree the Vice Chairperson who led the FIDA-NIGERIA Epe branch team, encouraged the pupils to aspire Higher, work hard and stay focused. Mrs.Oge Olisa-Mokelu , the PRO of FIDA – Nigeria Epe in her vote of thanks acknowledged the pupils’ contribution in researching and working hard to ensure the debate was a huge success despite the short notice.

FIDA Epe Branch adopts the Pediatric Ward of the Maternal Care and Child Hospital, Eti-Osa

In commemoration of Children’s Day, 2023. The EXCO and other members made the occasion a reality through their presence. The Medical Director, Dr. Quadiri, and his team received FIDA Epe, took them on a tour of the hospital, and stopped at the Pediatric Ward for a brief interaction with the staff and patients.

This was followed by a warm conversation in the conference room of the hospital on the history of the hospital and the whole essence of FIDA adoption. Led by Ifeyinwa Awagu (Chairperson) the branch donated an inverter AC and 8 pieces of ceiling fan to the Pediatric Ward

Branch Inauguration

FIDA Nigeria as part of its commitment towards effectively reaching the grassroots while scaling up on its core objective of protecting, promoting and preserving the rights of women and children, inaugurated her 44th Branch, FIDA Nigeria Ikeja Branch Lagos State on Wednesday, 14th of September 2022.

The Inauguration took place at the NBA Ikeja Branch Secretariat Hall, Old Secretariat building, Ikeja Lagos State.

The Theme of the inauguration was “Challenges faced by Women and Children in Nigeria: The Nigerian Experience!”

In attendance at the occasion were several distinguished personalities including the Country Vice President FIDA Nigeria, Amina Suzanah Agbaje; Chief Magistrate A.B Olagbegi Adelabu (Keynote speaker); Chairman Magistrate’s Association of Nigeria Lagos State Branch, Alex Muoka (Guest speaker); FIDA Nigeria National Secretary, Eliana Martins; amongst several other FIDA members and invited guests.

The inauguration was carried out by the Country Vice President FIDA Nigeria, after which the new Branch officials were sworn in. The inauguration was a huge success and underscores FIDA’s commitment to ensuring that the scope of provision of legal services (pro-bono) is broadened and extends far to the grassroots where it is mostly needed.