The Lagos State Government recently held a commendation night to celebrate individuals and organizations who have shown dedication in the fight against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV). This event was organized by the Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) to inspire and encourage stakeholders to increase their commitment to providing relief to victims and eradicating this menace from our society.
The commendation night marked the culmination of the awareness month campaign on SGBV, which aimed to rally citizens’ support for the THEMES+ Agenda of the State Government. The THEMES+ Agenda highlights key priorities in the state’s developmental strategy.
During the event, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. Abimbola Salu-Hudenyin, commended the DSVA for its various initiatives and advocacy programs. These efforts have significantly raised public awareness, provided rehabilitation for victims, and ensured justice for offenders. As a result, more victims are finding the courage to speak out and break the culture of silence surrounding SGBV.
The Governor emphasized the importance of increasing the conviction rate for perpetrators of domestic and sexual violence, describing these acts as evil, wicked, and inhumane. He stated, “We want to see more convictions of the bad eggs in society to serve as a deterrent to others lurking in the dark,” and expressed his government’s zero tolerance for SGBV.
Highlighting the impact of DSVA’s work, he shared the statistics on the number of victims seeking intervention from May 2019 to July 2023, which totals approximately 20,614 cases. In 2022 alone, 70 convictions were secured, while 600 cases are currently ongoing. These figures reflect the agency’s reach, acceptance, and positive impact on the population.
The Governor further stated, “I reiterate my administration’s determination not to relent in supporting the work and efforts of the DSVA and other organizations committed to this noble cause. We are dedicated to creating a safer and more secure environment where our children, women, and men can live happy lives.”
The Lagos State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, also underscored the state’s relentless fight against all forms of sexual and domestic abuse. He praised the successes achieved so far and called for increased efforts to support survivors and completely eradicate SGBV from our society.
In addition, key stakeholders including the Wife of the Lagos State Governor, Mrs. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, the Chief Judge of Lagos State, and the State Commissioner of Police, applauded the government’s commitment to tackling this menace. They pledged their support to the DSVA in its ongoing efforts to combat SGBV.
The commendation night was a testament to the bravery and resilience of survivors of sexual and gender-based violence. It also recognized individuals and organizations that have played a significant role in supporting victims and contributing to the fight against this heinous crime. With a clear vision and resolute determination, the Lagos State Government, the DSVA, and their partners continue to work towards reducing the perpetration of SGBV to the barest minimum.
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