A non-profit organisation, AYUBSON Life Foundation, has called on Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun not to sign the proposed Safe Termination of Pregnancy Law, 2026, into law, arguing that the state should prioritise support for pregnant women and families facing difficult circumstances.
Members of the foundation staged a peaceful protest in Abeokuta, the state capital, on Thursday to register their opposition to the bill. The protest followed its passage by the Ogun State House of Assembly in September.
The proposed legislation, identified as H.B. No. 036/OG/2026, seeks to establish conditions for the safe termination of pregnancy under specified legal indications. Its stated objectives include reducing maternal morbidity and mortality, promoting safe motherhood and advancing reproductive health rights.
The protesters, however, expressed concern that the legislation could weaken the protection of unborn children. They urged the state government to focus on strengthening support systems for women and families rather than approving the measure.
Speaking to journalists during the demonstration, AYUBSON Life Foundation founder and director Yusuf Ayuba said the organisation was committed to protecting unborn children and promoting respect for human life.
Ayuba argued that abortion was prohibited under existing Nigerian laws and questioned whether the state had the authority to introduce a law that, in the organisation’s view, could conflict with federal legislation.
His position represents the foundation’s legal and moral objection to the bill. The precise legal implications of the proposed law would depend on its provisions and their relationship with applicable national laws.
Ayuba also called on the governor to address challenges including poverty, hunger and unemployment, while expanding assistance for pregnant women and families experiencing hardship.
The foundation’s campaign received support from Badekale Abdullai, president of the National Association of Ogun State Students at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta. Abdullai urged the state government to consider the concerns raised by the protesters.
The governor’s decision on the bill will determine its next stage in the legislative process. No decision by Abiodun on whether to assent to or reject the proposed legislation was included in the information provided for this report.
The debate highlights differing positions on reproductive health policy, legal restrictions and the protection of women and unborn children.
