Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), through its Community Engagement Team, has conducted an impactful sensitisation session on Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) with members of the Lagos State Council of Tradesmen and Artisans (LASCOTA) at Ikosi-Isheri.
The Executive Secretary of the Lagos DSVA, Mrs. Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, in her address, affirmed the agency’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the widespread dissemination of the SGBV message throughout the State.
She stated that increased awareness at the grassroots level has been instrumental in raising awareness of critical issues surrounding SGBV in Lagos State. The grassroots approach has also been effective in encouraging the reporting of SGBV crimes and holding perpetrators accountable.
Engr. Gbolahan Akinsanya, the Chairman of LASCOTA, Ikosi-Isheri, expressed his appreciation to the DSVA for bringing the crucial message of SGBV prevention and eradication to their association.
He emphasised the importance of the zero-tolerance message and urged participants to disseminate this message within their various associations, markets, and places of residence. Akinsanya reiterated the need for collective action in the fight against SGBV and encouraged members to be vigilant and proactive in reporting cases of abuse.
Also speaking, Ms. Adetoun Odumbo, the Community Engagement Officer, Lagos DSVA, provided valuable insights to the association members on the emerging issues of SGBV. She discussed the legal provisions regarding SGBV, emphasising the rights of survivors and the legal repercussions for perpetrators.
Odumbo also outlined the procedures for reporting SGBV incidents, ensuring that participants were well-informed about the support systems available to them.
The sensitization session was attended by over 30 members of LASCOTA. To further aid in awareness and education, SGBV awareness materials were distributed to all participants. Additionally, the DSVA shared their toll-free line, 08000-333-333, which serves as a critical resource for reporting incidents and seeking help.
The session concluded with a strong message of solidarity and commitment to eradicating SGBV in Lagos State. The DSVA reaffirmed its dedication to supporting survivors, raising awareness, and ensuring justice for victims of sexual and gender-based violence.
