The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), in partnership with the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (ROLAC) program, funded by the European Union and implemented by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA), marked Day 4 of its 16 Days of Activism against Domestic and Sexual Violence on November 28, 2024, at the palace of Oba Aguda of Ogba, Alaiyeluwa Oba Hakeem Saibu Agbaosi.
The event, aimed at raising awareness about domestic and sexual violence, attracted members of the local community, leaders, and stakeholders, all gathered to support the fight against gender-based violence.
In his address, Oba of Aguda, HRH Hakeem Agbaosi EweObaja 1, passionately condemned domestic violence, child abuse, and wife battery, underlining that these acts are punishable under the law. He called on men in the community to take responsibility in protecting their families and ensuring that violence is not tolerated in their homes. The Kabiyesi stressed the importance of public awareness programs like the 16 Days of Activism, highlighting that such initiatives play a crucial role in educating the public on the dangers of domestic violence and the legal consequences for offenders.
To recognize the Oba’s support for the cause, Mrs. Oluwakemi Bello, Head of Field Operations at DSVA, presented the monarch with a symbolic purple ribbon and a commemorative plaque. The gesture acknowledged his continued advocacy for the elimination of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in the community.
As part of the sensitization program, Ms. Odumbo Adetoun, a facilitator from DSVA, engaged participants by educating them on various forms of abuse, how to report incidents, and the importance of eliminating the stigma surrounding victims of violence. She also highlighted the role of parents in teaching children about healthy relationships and the significance of fostering trust within families.
In addition to the speeches, the event included the distribution of educational materials, including informative fliers, branded T-shirts, and umbrellas, designed to further spread awareness of the cause. Mrs. Bello also took time to engage directly with the attendees, answering questions and addressing concerns about sexual and gender-based violence.
The Day 4 event at Oba Aguda’s palace was another critical step in the DSVA’s ongoing efforts to build safer communities by fostering education, empathy, and a zero-tolerance policy for violence. The event reinforced the commitment of both the DSVA and its partners to ending violence in all its forms and promoting gender equality across Lagos State.
