The Lagos state Project Coordinator, Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Programme (RoLAC), Mrs. Ajibola Ijimakinwa, says traditional rulers are a key stakeholders in the fight against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV).
She said for the fight against SGBV to succeed the traditional institution must be at the forefront because of their influence in communities.
According to her, traditional institutions must be seen as advocates of positive behavioral change, influencing their communities through both their actions and words.
Ijimakinwa who stated this during a town hall meeting held at the palace of the Olu of Epe, Oba Shefiu Olatunji Adewale, said the fight against SGBV could be a total success with the massive support of traditional institutions and their rulers.
According to her, traditional rulers’ involvement was crucial not only for awareness but also for providing support and relief to survivors by serving as key points of contact.
She tasked the monarch to actively champion gender equality and instill strong moral values that discourage SGBV within his domain, adding that traditional leaders have great influence over their people, hence the call on them to use their influence to mobilize their subjects against SGBV and foster a culture of respect and equality.
Speaking in RoLAC’s strategy for this year’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, Mrs. Ijimakinwa noted that the organization, in collaboration with the Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), is engaging 16 traditional rulers across Lagos state.
She explained that the goal is to extend SGBV awareness and sensitization efforts to the grassroots.
In response, the Olu of Epe, Oba Shefiu Olatunji Adewale, expressed gratitude to RoLAC and other stakeholders for their unwavering commitment to eradicating SGBV.
He reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to protecting the rights of women and ensuring that issues of domestic and sexual violence are addressed effectively.
Acknowledging the urgency of combating SGBV, Oba Shefiu Olatunji Adewale pledged to strengthen his collaboration with RoLAC, DSVA, and other stakeholders.
RoLAC also carried out sensitization campaigns at various markets in the communities and other public places.
