CRIVIFON Consolidates Anti-Crime Advocacy With Launch Of Mal Victims Initiative

By Eniola Jolaoso

The Crime Victims Foundation (CRIVIFON) yesterday, marked 27 years consistent advocacy against crime and domestic violence with the launch of a male victims’ initiative.

The anniversary programme and launching Project HE took place at the Police Training College, Ikeja, Lagos.

In her opening remarks, Executive Director Mrs. Gloria Egbugiji reflected on CRIVIFON’s journey, emphasising its sustained efforts towards protecting victims’ rights, promoting justice, and creating safe environments for the vulnerable.

She highlighted programmes such as the National Training Programme for law enforcement and community leaders, the Young People’s Human Rights Club, and ongoing interventions providing legal aid, psychological counseling, and rehabilitation for minors and indigent citizens.

“From its humble beginning to its nationwide reach, CRIVIFON’s mission remains unchanged: to protect the rights of crime victims, promote justice for all, and inspire a compassionate society where fairness, humanity, and accountability prevail,” she added.

During an exclusive session with journalists, Mrs. Egbugiji highlighted the silent suffering of male victims, explaining that many men endure abuse but fear speaking out.

“Many men suffer in silence because they fear being labelled as weak.

“They are often the true victims of domestic violence, yet society rarely acknowledges their plight. Some have even died quietly, unable to speak out,” she said.

A legal petitioner and human rights advocate, Barr. Princess Esther, also spoke with journalists, detailing the alarming realities faced by victims of crime and human rights abuses.

She noted that individuals are often raped, maltreated, and stripped of their basic rights, while authorities frequently fail to intervene.

On remedies, she stated, “We all need to stand for our rights, and that is what the likes of Shoei Rae and others are doing.

“It is not about being overzealous, but they are helping the voiceless.

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“We also have the amateur show court that goes deep for it, except the victim decides to march it down and not bring it to the public notice. But once we notice that there are situations like that, we go all out for it, whether the victim wants it or not, because our voices must not be dimmed. We as humans, we have rights that we must protect.”

The anniversary programme also showcased the launch of Project HE, recognition awards for long-standing partners and collaborators, the unveiling of the 2025 CRIVIFON calendar, and testimonials from beneficiaries who recounted the impact of the Foundation’s initiatives on their lives.

The event drew a wide array of participants, including journalists, security personnel, legal professionals, civil society organizations, and community leaders, reflecting the extensive network that has supported CRIVIFON over its 27-year history.