FIC Report (Lagos State) – Lagos State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Bolaji Cecilia Dada, has condemned domestic violence and sexual abuse, describing them as grave social ills that threaten the peace, security, and moral fabric of society. These heinous acts cut across age, class, and background, leaving survivors with invisible yet deeply damaging scars.
According to Hon. Dada, domestic violence and sexual abuse are violations of human rights, crimes against humanity, and direct assaults on the dignity of women, children, and vulnerable persons. She emphasized that these issues thrive in silence, allowing perpetrators to harm others without consequence.
The Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation is committed to supporting survivors with counseling, legal aid, shelter, and economic empowerment. The ministry is strengthening its Domestic and Sexual Violence Units to ensure that survivors receive the help they need to rebuild their lives.
Hon. Dada stressed the need for collective action, urging communities, families, religious institutions, schools, and individuals to stand united against domestic violence and sexual abuse. “When you witness abuse, speak up. When you suspect violence, intervene. When a survivor seeks help, believe them and support them,” she advised.
To all survivors, Hon. Dada offered a message of hope and support: “You are not alone, you are not to blame, and your voice matters. Help is available, and we are here to walk with you on the path to healing and justice.”
By working together, the community can break the cycle of silence and shame, building a safer and more just society for all. As Hon. Dada reiterated, “Domestic violence and sexual abuse must never have a place in our society.”
Signed
OJIUGO OKAMEME
FIC, LAGOS
2/9/2025
