Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has urged citizens to dismantle the culture of silence surrounding sexual and gender-based violence (GBV) in society. He made this call during the 2024 Governor’s Commendation and Awards Night organized by the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), held in Ikeja. Governor Sanwo-Olu was represented by his wife, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu.
The Governor emphasized that the 2024 theme against sexual and gender-based violence, “Not on My Watch,” serves as a rallying cry for collective action. He stated, “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 endeavor.”
Sanwo-Olu highlighted the need to strengthen the legal framework and expand support systems for victims of GBV, while underscoring the importance of breaking the silence that allows such abuse to persist.
Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, represented by Mojisola Daba, also addressed the event, reinforcing his commitment to family values and a zero-tolerance policy towards violence and intimidation against any person or group.
The Executive Secretary of the DSVA, Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, shared alarming statistics, revealing that the agency has handled over 25,000 cases since its inception in 2014, with 6,330 cases reported in the previous year alone. She noted that the top five local government areas with high reports of sexual violence include Alimosho, Ikorodu, Kosofe, Eti-Osa, and Oshodi-Isolo.
The DSVA recently celebrated its 10th anniversary with a symposium and various programs aimed at raising awareness about domestic and sexual violence, culminating in the awards night. The governor’s appeal and the agency’s efforts highlight the urgent need for a concerted approach to combat sexual abuse and support victims in Lagos State.
