Jare Olukotun
In a sustained effort to raise awareness and prevent domestic violence, authorities of Imota Local Council Development Area, took to the streets to drive home the campaign on Domestic, Sexual and Gender-based Violence (DSGBV).
The sensitisation exercise organised annually in Lagos State campaigns against sexual and gender-based violence. It was aimed at raising public awareness and encouraging residents to reject all forms of abuse while promoting respect, equality, peaceful coexistence and the protection of human dignity.
The exercise which took place on Wednesday commenced at the council secretariat and proceeded to Obada Market, Imota Primary Healthcare Centre, and ended at the palace of His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Mudashiru Ajibade Bakare-Agoro, CFR, the Ranodu of Imota, Olufoworesete II, where council staff engaged members of the community on the dangers and consequences of domestic, sexual and gender-based violence.
They emphasised that violence in any form should neither be tolerated nor dismissed as a private family affair, urging residents to speak out whenever they witness or experience abusive behaviour in homes, workplaces, schools, markets, religious centres and other social environments.
Speaking during the sensitisation, the Head of Department, Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA), Mrs.Aderonke Hussaini, explained that domestic violence could take several forms, including physical assault, emotional and psychological abuse, sexual violence and economic control, among other behaviours capable of undermining the dignity and wellbeing of victims.
She reaffirmed the commitment of the Executive Chairman of Imota LCDA, Hon. Benson Sunday Ayodele, to promoting human rights and called on residents to take a firm stand against abuse, noting that silence could empower perpetrators.
Mrs. Hussaini further warned about the severe and long-term consequences of sexual violence, noting that survivors could experience serious emotional and psychological trauma.
She also stressed the need for collective action to eliminate violence from society and create safe spaces for everyone.
“We must create safe spaces in our homes, schools, markets, and religious centres. Domestic and sexual violence is not a private matter. It is a public health concern, a social justice issue, and a threat to the dignity of every individual,” she said.
Also speaking, the Supervisor for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation in Imota LCDA, Hon. Abosede Idowu Yekini, advised council staff and residents to be proactive in safeguarding their homes and communities.
She emphasised collective responsibility in preventing abuse and protecting victims, while declaring that no woman, man or child should live in fear of violence.
She urged residents to utilise available support channels provided by the Lagos State Government and ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice.
Hon. Abosede also called on parents and guardians to pay closer attention to the welfare and activities of children, urging them to create an environment where children can freely speak about their experiences.
She noted that many cases of abuse thrive in silence and stressed that prevention begins with vigilance at home. She further stated that the Hon. Benson Sunday Ayodele administration maintains a zero-tolerance stance against rape, child abuse and domestic violence, while encouraging community-led initiatives as an effective means of combating SGBV.
