Traditional rulers have been urged to use their positions and influence to end the mennace sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in the society.
Lagos State Project Coordinator, the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Programme (RoLAC) Mrs. Ajibola Ijimakinwa,said it has now become imperative more than ever before for traditional rulers to take a leading role in this fight.
She stated this during a town hall meeting held at the palace of the Oloja of Epe, Oba Sulaimon Adeshina Raji.
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 said the call became necessary in view of the respect traditional leaders have over their people.
She appealed to them to use their influence to mobilize their subjects against SGBV and foster a culture of respect and equality.
Mrs. Ijimakinwa urged Oba Sulaimon Adeshina Raji to actively champion gender equality and instill strong moral values that discourage SGBV within his domain.
According to her, traditional institutions must be seen as advocates of positive behavioral change, influencing their communities through both their actions and words.
Highlighting 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 Oloja of Epe, Oba Sulaimon Adeshina Raji 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 Sulaimon Adeshina Raji pledged to strengthen his collaboration with RoLAC, DSVA, and other stakeholders.
He emphasized his kingdom’s commitment to safeguarding women’s rights and fostering a safer, more equitable society.
RoLAC had also visited the palace of the Adeboruwa of Igbogbo Kingdom, Oba Semiudeen Orimadegun Kasali, and that of Olu of Iwaya, Oba Suleiman Owolabi Ogun Oloko in Lagos State
