The Lagos State Government has issued a firm declaration against domestic violence and sexual abuse, stressing that such acts are crimes against humanity and must never be treated as private matters.
Speaking through the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Commissioner Mr. Bolaji Kayode Robert emphasized that the culture of silence surrounding abuse only empowers perpetrators.
“These vices thrive in silence, and silence only protects the abuser. We must all rise to say: NO MORE SILENCE, NO MORE VIOLENCE,” Mr. Robert affirmed.
He assured Lagosians that the state government remains fully committed to protecting survivors and holding offenders accountable.
According to him, efforts will include providing counselling, legal aid, shelter, and empowerment initiatives for victims of abuse.
However, he stressed that government intervention alone cannot win the fight. “When you see abuse, SPEAK. When you suspect violence, ACT. When survivors cry for help, BELIEVE them. To every survivor out there — you are not alone, you are not to blame, and your voice matters,” he declared.
Adding to the call, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Rural Development, Dr. Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje, reaffirmed the state’s determination to ensure that no community is left behind in the campaign against abuse.
He noted that awareness will be intensified in rural and semi-urban areas where stigma often forces victims into silence.
“We are breaking the cycle of fear and shame,” Dr. Agbaje stated. “Together, let’s build a Lagos where every woman, every child, and every person can live free from fear, abuse, and violence.”
The strong position of the Lagos State Government underscores its zero-tolerance policy on domestic violence and sexual abuse, while also urging communities, families, and individuals to take collective responsibility in protecting survivors and reporting offenders.
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