The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) on Thursday charged students of the Lagos State University (LASU) to report cases of Sexual and Gender Based Violence (SGBV) to the government for appropriate action.
This is part of the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Awareness Month. The event is a pivotal campus activation programme themed: “End Sexual and Gender-Based Violence on Campus,” which took place at LASU.
The event aimed to foster a culture of safety and support among students.
Mrs. Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), stressed the urgent need to cultivate an environment free from sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV).
“Silence is complicit,” she asserted, urging the LASU community to actively report incidents of abuse.
Vivour-Adeniyi reiterated the DSVA’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding individuals through proactive measures beyond mere awareness campaigns, encouraging students and staff to utilize resources, including the toll-free helpline 08000-333-333, to report SGBV cases.
Dr. Igot Ofem, Acting Director of the Centre for Response and Prevention of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (CRPSGBV) at LASU, delivered a goodwill message, reinforcing the university’s commitment to addressing these critical issues.
Mr. Damilare Adewusi, Head of Community Engagement at DSVA, provided an insightful introduction to the topic of gender-based violence (GBV), highlighting its detrimental effects on individuals and communities.
He emphasized the collective responsibility of everyone in preventing sexual assault and domestic violence, sharing warning signs of potential abuse.
Adewusi also outlined practical steps for students facing SGBV, emphasizing the importance of reaching out for help.
In a symbolic gesture of solidarity, Joke Ladenegan Oginni, Head of Public Affairs at DSVA, adorned several LASU staff members with purple ribbons, signifying the institution’s firm stance against SGBV.
The event featured a session led by Miss Adetoun Odumbo from DSVA, who discussed the legal protections available for victims of domestic violence, detailing the significance of existing laws and how they can be leveraged for safety.
Students were once again encouraged to report abuse to the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency via the dedicated toll-free number, 08000-333-333.
In closing, Mrs. Akinyemi of LASU expressed gratitude to the DSVA team for their enlightening session on the perils of SGBV, prevention strategies, and the support services available to the university community.
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