Ogun partners community leaders to tackle Gender-Based Violence

To curb the rising cases of Gender-Based Violence in Ogun State, the government has partnered with community leaders in the Ogun East Senatorial District to raise awareness and promote advocacy on the issue.

During a sensitisation programme organised by the Ministry of Women’s Affairs and Social Development for community gatekeepers in Ijebu-Ode on Thursday, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Women Affairs, Mrs Ayotunde Lawal, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting initiatives that aim to build a safer future for all citizens.

Lawal emphasized the importance of strengthening ties with community leaders to curtail violence against women, girls, and boys, and assured that the state government is making concerted efforts to improve the lives of its citizens.

“As government, we will continue to give encouragement and support to all our gatekeepers within each community, whose mission tallies with our agenda of ‘Building Our Future Together’ and making life more meaningful for citizens, irrespective of their geographical location, gender, religious, or political affiliation,” she said.

Earlier, the Director of Women Empowerment Services, Mrs Wonuola Kassim, highlighted the crucial role community leaders play in reaching and impacting their people, noting that their partnership is essential in reducing GBV cases.

In his goodwill message, the Chairman of Olorituns, Ijebu-Ode Council, Chief Adeola Alausa, praised the state government for organizing the programme, describing it as timely and vital in combating GBV.

He called for collective efforts and continued government support to end social vices in society.

In her lecture titled “Understanding Gender-Based Violence and Response,” the Ministry’s Gender Vocal Officer, Mrs. Mariam Afolabi, detailed the different forms of violence, including physical, mental, and psychological abuse.

She noted that sexual assaults can have devastating effects on survivors’ emotions, resulting in anger, fear, and sadness, and encouraged both community leaders and survivors to speak up.