Lagos Agency Takes Awareness Campaign on Sexual and Gender-Based Violence to Ajegunle

The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) has taken its awareness campaign on sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) to Ajegunle in Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government. The agency organized an advocacy walk, tagged “Eko Men Walk,” to sensitize men on the need to prevent SGBV.

According to the Executive Secretary of DSVA, Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, the walk was aimed at engaging men and women in the community on the different forms of SGBV, its consequences, and available support services. “We want to let them know that these abuses attract jail terms, and ignorance of the law is not an excuse,” she said.

Vivour-Adeniyi explained that the choice of Ajegunle was deliberate due to the recent rise in domestic violence, child abuse, and assaults in the area. She cited two recent cases of child abuse, including a man who used a hot iron on his son’s bottom and a female child who was beaten for three years, resulting in severe bruises.

The DSVA executive secretary emphasized the importance of proactive measures to address SGBV, saying, “Instead of the normal routine of responding, we should be proactive to come and engage the community.” She added that the agency wants to create a community where SGBV is not tolerated, and victims receive the necessary support and protection.

The advocacy walk was part of the agency’s activities to mark the annual September Awareness Month, themed “SGBV? Not On My Watch!” The event aimed to sensitize men on their role in preventing SGBV and promoting a culture of respect and non-violence.

By engaging men in the conversation, the DSVA hopes to create a community where SGBV is not tolerated, and victims receive the necessary support and protection. The agency’s efforts are geared towards promoting a culture of zero tolerance for SGBV in Lagos State.