…pledges Expanded Support for Sexual Violence Survivors
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to eradicating sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in the state.
Speaking during the 2024 Governor’s Commendation and Awards Night, hosted by the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), Sanwo-Olu, represented by his wife, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, highlighted the positive impact of the agency’s initiatives and advocacy programs.
The governor praised the DSVA for its work in raising awareness, rehabilitating victims, and ensuring justice for offenders, stating that these efforts have “significantly encouraged more victims to speak out and break the cowardly culture of silence.”
Sanwo-Olu emphasized the need for additional Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs) in the state, citing the growing population. “With 20 local governments and over 20 million people, three centres are simply not enough. The demand for these services is high, considering the number of cases we are dealing with,” he noted.
The governor also stressed the importance of collective action, urging the involvement of religious leaders, community heads, and individuals in the fight against SGBV. “The theme for the 2024 activities, ‘SGBV, Not On My Watch,’ is more than a slogan; it is a call for unified action against this menace,” Sanwo-Olu declared.
The Executive Secretary of DSVA, Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, shared that the agency has handled over 25,000 cases in the past decade. She added that sustained advocacy has resulted in higher reporting rates, noting, “We are gradually breaking the culture of silence and encouraging individuals to speak up. It has been a remarkable journey, and we have seen increased faith in the system.”
Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed that the Lagos State government remains committed to providing comprehensive support for victims while ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable.
