LASG, RoLAC, others seek protection against domestic, sexual violence

Lagos State Government, in collaboration with the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Programme (RoLAC), European Union (EU), among others, has urged individuals, organisations and communities to join other forces in kicking against domestic and sexual violence.

They gave the charge during an advocacy initiative programme themed: “SGBV? Not On My Watch!”, which aimed to raise awareness and empower individuals to recognise, report, and combat domestic and sexual violence.

The initiative, which is part of the Child Protection Week and Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) Month, started on September 17 at the Eko Boys High School, Mushin, and would climax with an award night on September 30, 2024 to recognise schools, individuals and organisations at the forefront of combating the scourge.

Lagos State Project Coordinator for RoLAC, Ajibola Ijimakinwa, reiterated RoLAC’s commitment to making justice accessible to the most vulnerable populations, including children, women, persons with disabilities, and victims of SGBV.

Also, DSVA Executive Secretary, Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, said that the agency had made significant progress over the past decade but acknowledges that more efforts need to be intensified. On his part, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof. Ayodele Atsenuwa, emphasised the need for sustainable support systems.

He said: “Victims may require healthcare services, psychosocial support, and legal justice. They may also need shelter and protection from their abusers. Founder of Women at Risk International Foundation, Dr Kemi DaSilva-Ibru, who attributed the prevalence of gender-based violence to Nigeria’s patriarchal system and cultural practices, said: “We must ensure the safety of girls and women at all times.”DaSilva-Ibru said that the safety of girls and women should be ensured at all times.