As part of efforts to combat abuse and raise awareness at the grassroots level, the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) in collaboration with Somolu Local Government has hosted a one-day sensitization programme aimed at educating residents on the dangers of domestic and sexual violence and the importance of speaking out.
The campaign, which took place on Monday 16th June 2025 at the new Somolu Local Government Secretariat, brought together key stakeholders including community leaders, market women, artisans, religious figures, and civil society groups, all united in the mission to end gender-based violence.
Speaking shortly after the programme, the Head of the Department for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA) in Somolu, Mrs. Adekoya Oluwakemisola, described the initiative as a timely and progressive move that equips residents with vital knowledge about their rights and the need to report acts of abuse.
“In our communities, we’ve seen situations where men abuse their wives, and in some cases, women abuse their husbands. Even more disturbing are cases where fathers rape their daughters, or teachers abuse their students. These atrocities must stop. That is why this agency and programme exist—to address and eliminate such evils,” she stated.
Also lending her voice, one of the participants and council staff, Mrs. Shafidiya Orebiyi Bolanle, applauded the Lagos State Government and DSVA for organizing the impactful event, describing it as an overdue “eye-opener” that could have made a difference for many in the past.
“It’s a very good initiative. If we had this kind of enlightenment programme in the past, it might have saved many who were abused physically, emotionally, and psychologically. I’m glad it’s happening now,” she said.
Anchoring the event was DSVA’s Community Engagement Officer, Mrs. Odumo Adetoun, who explained that the programme is part of the agency’s broader community engagement strategy designed to equip residents with the knowledge and tools to identify, prevent, and report gender-based violence.
“We are here in Somolu today to ensure people are well-informed and empowered to take action. Domestic and sexual violence should no longer be treated as private matters—it’s on all of us to break the silence and stop the cycle,” Adetoun noted.
Representing the Executive Chairman of Somolu Local Government, Hon. AbdulHamed Salawu (Dullar), a council official expressed the council’s support for the initiative and its readiness to work closely with DSVA and other agencies to eliminate violence within the community.
“Somolu is a forward-thinking local government. We will not allow abuse of any form—physical, sexual, or emotional—to persist. Our administration is committed to providing safe spaces and holding perpetrators accountable,” the chairman affirmed.
Highlights of the event included the distribution of educational materials, an open forum for sharing experiences and asking questions, and a market outreach where DSVA officials visited Bajulaiye Market to engage traders in local languages and distribute awareness leaflets.
A market leader, Mrs. Fausat Ibrahim, welcomed the initiative and noted that many women and children suffer in silence due to stigma and lack of awareness.
“This programme is a much-needed intervention. Many victims stay quiet because they don’t know help exists or they fear being judged. Today’s event is a step in the right direction.” She said.
The DSVA reiterated its commitment to continuing the sensitization drive across all 57 Local Government and Local Council Development Areas in Lagos. Residents were reminded of the agency’s 24/7 toll-free hotline—08000 333 333—which is available for survivors or witnesses to report cases in strict confidence.
As the programme concluded, participants signed the “It’s On Us” pledge wall, signaling their individual and collective commitment to being proactive community defenders against abuse.
The Somolu edition of the campaign has not only raised awareness but also strengthened community resolve to stand united in the fight against domestic and sexual violence in Lagos State.
