LAGOS GOVT COLLABORATES WITH STAKEHOLDERS TO COMBAT SEXUAL, GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE
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By: Oduola.F.A.
The Lagos State Government, through the Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), held a one-day training session for Community Leaders on Tuesday to address Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV). The event took place at the Lagos LCCI building.
Mrs. Tumininu Oni, Head of the Case Management Department at Lagos DSVA, provided a comprehensive overview of SGBV. She explained that “gender-based violence is a critical issue affecting individuals through structural gender inequalities, patriarchy, and power imbalances.” Oni detailed that SGBV includes harmful acts of sexual, physical, psychological, mental, and emotional abuse perpetrated against a person’s will, based on socially ascribed gender differences.
According to her, while terms like “gender-based violence” and “sexual violence” are often used interchangeably, it’s crucial to note that not all violence against women qualifies as gender-based, and victims can be of any gender.
Oni praised the Lagos government for its commitment to tackling SGBV, stating, “The Lagos government has shown commendable dedication in the fight against sexual and gender-based violence.” She urged stakeholders to deepen their understanding of the issue.
Oni further explained different forms of sexual violence, including attempted rape, fondling, and coercion, saying, “Sexual violence is characterized by a lack of explicit consent, the use of physical force or coercion, and the involvement of victims who may be incapacitated or unconscious.”
“Penetration without mutual consent between couples constitutes marital rape, while sexual activity with individuals under 18 is considered defilement regardless of consent.”
She emphasized the need for prompt reporting of SGBV cases to prevent further abuse and addressed misconceptions about abusers, highlighting that there is no justification for failing to manage one’s anger.
Mr. Damilare Adewusi, who spoke at the event, highlighted the role of stakeholders in combating SGBV. He stated, “It is crucial for all stakeholders to work together to fight sexual and gender-based violence effectively.”
Adewusi announced plans to visit Community Development Associations (CDAs) across Lagos in October to raise awareness and educate the public. He encouraged Lagosians to report SGBV incidents by calling the 24-hour toll-free line at 0800-333-3333, adding, “You have the right to follow up on any case you report, and it’s important to come forward and fight against this crime.”
Mrs. Oluwaseun Akintola from the Ministry of Local Government reiterated the need for public sensitization against SGBV, saying, “We must work together to ensure that SGBV is not tolerated in our communities.”
Alhaji Aremu Hamzat Azeez, Chairman of the Community Development and Advisory Council, concluded the session by expressing gratitude to the Lagos DSVA and the state government for their ongoing efforts.
The training aimed to equip community leaders with essential knowledge and tools to combat SGBV, promoting a safer environment for all Lagosians and reinforcing the commitment to ending sexual and gender-based violence in the community.
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