A coalition of civil society organisations under the banner of the Talk Initiative Civil Society Organisation has called for a full, transparent, and impartial investigation into serious allegations of prolonged abuse and exploitation made by one Hadiza Musa Baffa.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, the group demanded urgent action from security agencies and the Nigerian justice system, emphasizing the need for accountability and protection for vulnerable women who come forward with such claims.
The group’s lead counsel, Pauline Okoeguale, stated that the allegations must not be swept under the rug, noting that the complainant had provided direct testimony to the coalition.
Okoeguale said, “We have established direct contact with Hadiza Musa Baffa, and we stand firmly with her in this fight for justice. Her ordeal is heartbreaking, and we cannot remain silent.”
Although the individual at the centre of the allegations was not named during the press conference, the group hinted that the matter involves a senior legal practitioner and former public office holder.
The coalition made it clear that the campaign, currently gaining traction on social media under the hashtag #JusticeForHadiza, is not politically motivated.
Okoeguale said, “This campaign has no political undertone. It is about the protection of a mother, the dignity of Nigerian women, and standing against systemic abuse.
“No woman should ever be forced to choose between silence and survival,” Okoeguale added.
Hadiza Musa Baffa, in a public statement circulated during the briefing, detailed her alleged experience of sustained abuse, emotional trauma, and systemic obstacles in her quest for justice.
She claimed her efforts to seek redress had been met with resistance and intimidation.
She also disclosed undergoing a DNA test, which she says confirms the paternity of her child, and urged the alleged perpetrator to take responsibility.
“I just want justice for myself and my child. I have endured so much, and all I’m asking for is protection and truth,” Baffa said.
The coalition urged law enforcement agencies to investigate the case without bias and enforce existing laws protecting women and children from abuse.
“This is a matter of public concern, and justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done,” Okoeguale said.
According to the group, Hadiza has also faced harassment and pressure to withdraw her case, despite reportedly obtaining medical and legal evidence.
The Talk Initiative stressed that it is not attempting to try the case in the media but rather calling on institutions to fulfil their responsibilities without fear or favour.
“We are not here to replace the courts. But we insist that institutions must do their jobs,” the group stated.
The coalition called on Nigerians, especially civil society organisations, human rights advocates, and the media, to lend their voices in support of Hadiza and others like her.
“We are calling on all advocates of justice to rally behind Hadiza. She must not face this battle alone,” Okoeguale added.
As the case garners wider attention, all eyes are now on law enforcement authorities and whether investigations will be handled with the transparency and integrity demanded by the public.
The coalition pledged to continue monitoring the situation, offering support for due process and standing firmly with victims of abuse in their quest for justice.
“This is bigger than one person. It’s about the systemic failure that allows silence and intimidation to thrive. We want a Nigeria where survivors can be heard, protected, and vindicated,” Okoeguale concluded.
