Traditional rulers play a pivotal role in the fight against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) due to their significant influence within communities, according to Ajibola Ijimakinwa, Lagos State Project Coordinator for the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Programme (RoLAC). Speaking at a town hall meeting held at the palace of the Olu of Epe, Oba Shefiu Olatunji Adewale, Ijimakinwa emphasized the need for traditional leaders to lead advocacy efforts against SGBV.
“Traditional institutions must act as advocates for positive behavioral change by promoting respect, equality, and moral values within their communities,” she stated. She urged monarchs to actively support survivors and serve as key points of contact to provide relief and assistance.
As part of RoLAC’s strategy for the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the organization, in collaboration with the Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), is engaging 16 traditional rulers across Lagos State. The initiative aims to raise grassroots awareness and extend sensitization efforts to the most vulnerable populations.
Oba Shefiu Olatunji Adewale expressed his gratitude to RoLAC and other stakeholders for their relentless efforts to combat SGBV. He reaffirmed his commitment to protecting women’s rights and addressing domestic and sexual violence within his domain.
Acknowledging the urgency of the issue, the monarch pledged to strengthen partnerships with RoLAC, DSVA, and other organizations to foster a culture of respect and equality. “This collaboration is vital to ensuring that awareness translates into action within our communities,” he said.
Additionally, RoLAC extended its sensitization campaigns to markets and public spaces in Epe and surrounding areas, further promoting its grassroots strategy to eradicate SGBV in Lagos State.
