It remains unclear what actually occurred in Tonto Dikeh’s now-dissolved marriage between herself and ex-husband Olakunle Churchill. Dikeh had initially alleged her husband was violent in the relationship but lost almost all credibility when evidence emerged both from the Ghana police, and her husband’s camp, about her alleged numerous acts of violence against him, his mother and other members of his family. His statement was also subsequently allegedly corroborated by their house help. The alleged evidence along with Dikeh’s prior acts of violence towards others, before she married her ex-husband, made it incredibly difficult to know who to believe in the alleged allegations, with most concluding they were both guilty of domestic violence against each other, and categorically dismissing the two.
The public’s dismissal, however, has not prevented Tonto Dikeh from drawing a line in the sand and declaring war on domestic violence. Dikeh joined Olori Wuraola Ogunwusi’s of Ile-Ife in the Olori’s newly launched #1in3Africa campaign, over the weekend, to march and call on Nigerians to say “no to domestic violence.” Dikeh was joined by numerous women in the entertainment industry, including Mercy Aigbe, who is a recent victim of domestic violence. In addition, at times, Dikeh and Aigbe got emotional during the march as they spoke passionately about stopping acts of violence against women.
Watch Dikeh, Mercy Aigbe, and Olori Wuraola as they speak against domestic violence. Also, watch a recently shared clip by Aigbe of her suffering at the alleged hands of her husband. Aigbe has required numerous medical attention for injuries to her face.
Mercy Aigbe
Olori Wuraola
Key Facts about the #1in3Africa Campaign
- “The #1in3Africa Campaign is a further call to action against the endemic scourge of sexual and domestic violence to women. It’s unique voice was borne out of the realization to treat the root cause of this persistent societal bane in spite of numerous global campaigns by reorientation, education and extensive awareness. The charge is to spread these educational and empowering messages across the continent.”
- “The #1in3Africa Campaign is supported by the Emir of Kano, Tonto Dikeh, Mercy Aigbe, Kate Henshaw, Ini Edo, Monalisa Chinda, Uche Jumbo, Funke Akindele, Adunni Ade, Annie Idibia, Seyi Shay, Ndidi Obioha (Enthyst), HRH Queen Chika Acholonu, Mrs Onari Duke, Dare Art Alade, Mrs Ifeoma Williams, Mrs Yutee Rone and many more.”
- Per the Olori’s statement, “daily there are reports of women being beaten, killed and emotionally abused by men they thought would protect them, men they believed will love them and keep them safe. My heart breaks as I read these stories and hear news of incidents across Nigeria of women who have lost their lives, will to live and confidence whilst in these very unhealthy and destructive relationships.”
- “Domestic violence is fast becoming a trend with little or no consequence considering the seriousness of the crime. UN statistics show that 1 in 3 women are abused daily this is a rather sad ratio. So I ask myself, “How can I help”? “How can I impact the lives of these women? The #1in3Africa campaign is a movement to help put a STOP TO DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN it is a cry for help against the injustice these women have to endure for fear of being shamed, ridiculed and alone.”
- Per the Olori’s statement, “(she), alongside three amazing, strong and courageous women have come together to be that voice for the helpless woman- there is no shame in your pain, it’s not your fault, you are beautiful, strong and powerful. We look forward to going this life changing journey with you and giving you a chance to rise again. HM Olori Wuraola Zaynab Otiti Ogunwusi. – Yeyeluwa of Ife.”
- “The United Nations statistics are staggering! The UN estimates that 70% of women have experienced physical and/or sexual violence from an intimate partner in their lifetime. This means that around 120 Million girls worldwide have experienced forced sexual acts at some point in their lives. Sadly, the most common perpetrators of this sexual violence are current or former husbands, partners or boyfriends.”
- “1 in 3 Women have either been beaten or experienced sexual violence. 1 in 3 women will die as a result of that violence. THE TIME TO ACT IS NOW!
Everyone (men and women) are invited to join the movement to end violence against women by providing much-needed awareness and support to the girls and women in need, beginning with an awareness walk. The first walk took place on Friday, June 30, 2017.
-Ms. Uduak