The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) has bolstered its grassroots advocacy campaign by hosting a comprehensive sensitization programme in the Oko-Agbon, Agboyi community.
The initiative aims to entrench a culture of safety and reinforce the state government’s zero-tolerance policy toward Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV).
Breaking the Silence on Abuse
During the engagement, agency representative Mr. Akanbi Richard meticulously detailed the various manifestations of abuse, including physical, sexual, emotional, and economic violence.
He emphasized that understanding these distinctions is the first step toward prevention. Beyond identification, the session focused on the robust support services available to survivors, ensuring that residents are equipped with the knowledge of how to navigate the recovery process and utilize official reporting channels.
Legal Accountability and Consequences
Adding a stern reminder of the state’s judicial stance, Mr. Adeleke highlighted the legal repercussions awaiting perpetrators of violence in Lagos. He noted that the law is designed to ensure accountability, stressing that no offender is beyond the reach of justice. To facilitate immediate intervention, community members were urged to utilize the DSVA toll-free line, 0-8000-333-333, to report incidents in real-time.
Community Leadership Voice
The traditional leadership of the area expressed strong support for the government’s presence. Speaking on the impact of the initiative, the Baale of Oko-Agbon Agboyi, High Chief Fatai A. Bankole, praised the agency for its proactive approach to community safety.
“I commend the DSVA for bringing this vital initiative directly to our people. Sustained awareness is the only key to protecting lives and fostering peaceful coexistence within our community,” High Chief Bankole stated.
A Growing Commitment to Safety
With over 20 active participants engaging in the dialogue, the session concluded with a renewed sense of communal responsibility. The turnout reflects a growing commitment among Agboyi residents to uphold accountability and ensure that their neighborhoods remain a hostile environment for abusers.
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