Gbenga Oloniniran
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called on citizens to break the culture of silence which causes sexual and gender-based violence to persist in society.
The governor, who was represented by his wife, Dr Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, said this on Monday during the 2024 governor’s commendation and awards night organised by the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency and held in Ikeja.
Sanwo-Olu said, “The 2024 theme against sexual and gender-based violence, ‘Not on My Watch’ is more than a slogan; it is a call for action to all of us. The fight against sexual and gender-based violence requires participation from everyone – religious leaders, community heads, families and individuals.
“It is not just the responsibility of the government or the agency. It is a collective endeavour. Together we must continue to strengthen our legal framework, expand our support systems, and most importantly, break the culture of silence that allows abuse to persist.”
Also speaking at the event, the Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, who was represented by Mojisola Daba, said, “I am a strong advocate of family values and social cohesion, therefore, I affirm my support for zero tolerance for any act of violence or intimidation against any persons, groups or gender. We have achieved a lot so far in the campaign to end domestic and sexual violence.”
On her part, the Executive Secretary of the DSVA, Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, revealed that the agency had handled over 25,000 cases since its inception in 2014 and last year, it dealt with 6,330 cases alone.
“The top five local government areas with high reports of sexual violence are Alimosho, Ikorodu, Kosofe, Eti-Osa and Oshodi-Isolo,” she said.
The DSVA commemorated its 10th anniversary in September with a symposium and series of programmes across the state which culminated in an award night.
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