The Lagos State government has announced significant progress in combating sexual and gender-based violence, with 50 convictions secured over the past year. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu highlighted these achievements in a recent message coinciding with September, designated as the state’s domestic and sexual violence awareness month.
Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized the importance of dedicating a month to raise awareness about these critical issues. He underscored the administration’s commitment to its THEMES Plus Agenda, which includes comprehensive strategies aimed at providing support, protection, and justice for survivors.
“In the past year, the state has provided holistic services to over 6,000 survivors and has reached over a million residents through advocacy and sensitization programs,” the governor stated. He acknowledged the ongoing challenges, noting that many survivors still face barriers in accessing these vital services due to the issues being shrouded in secrecy.
Sanwo-Olu called for collective efforts to increase awareness and support for survivors while ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable. He reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to tackling sexual and gender-based violence, citing the successful initiatives that continue to make a positive impact.
In related news, the Take It Back Movement, a human rights organization, has urged the Federal Government to declare an emergency regarding the rising incidents of sexual and gender-based violence in Nigeria. Concerns have been raised over a recent case in Lagos involving a police officer accused of defiling a 17-year-old girl, highlighting the urgent need for heightened attention to this critical issue.
