The Lagos State House of Assembly has called for urgent need for a proactive strategy to tackle the pervasive issues of domestic and sexual violence within the state.
This call was made at a plenary session presided over by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, in a recent motion presented under the agenda of 'Matters of Urgent Public Importance,' the Assembly highlighted the critical role that educational and religious institutions can play in addressing these societal challenges. The members emphasized the establishment of Guidance and Counseling Units in schools and places of worship as a vital initiative to engage the community and prevent incidents of violence.
By implementing these units, the Assembly aims to create safe spaces for individuals to seek help and support, thereby fostering a culture of awareness and prevention. The initiative is designed not only to provide immediate assistance to victims but also to educate the public on the signs of domestic and sexual violence, encouraging a collective effort to combat these issues.
The prime mover of the motion, Hon. Omolara Olumegbon, the representative for Lagos Island-01, underscored the critical need for comprehensive education on domestic violence for children.
Hon. Olumegbon articulated the importance of not only reinforcing existing laws but also enhancing public awareness and understanding of domestic violence issues. She emphasized that while legislative frameworks are in place, they require renewed vigor and commitment to ensure their effectiveness in protecting vulnerable populations.
In his support of the motion, Hon.Ogundipe representing Oshodi-Isolo constituency-1 echoes need for proper counselling from both the educational institutions and religion bodies as sexual and domestic violence known no gender, this would further sensitize the public to quickly alert the authority when the symptoms of the abuse is noted.
Meanwhile, Hon. Gbolahan Yishawu, representing Eti-Osa 2, voiced significant concerns regarding the alarming prevalence of domestic violence within society. He emphasized the critical need to differentiate between domestic violence and parental discipline, highlighting that while the latter may be a necessary aspect of upbringing, it should never cross the line into abuse.
In the same legislative debate, Hon. Abiodun Tobun of Epe -01 also contributed to the discussion by stressing the vital role of education in combating domestic violence. He advocated for the integration of values and norms into the curricula of schools and religious institutions, suggesting that instilling these principles in young minds can foster a culture of respect and understanding.
Additionally, Hon. Ladi Ajomale urged relevant agencies to intensify their efforts in addressing this pressing issue. He called for a collaborative approach among governmental bodies, non-governmental organizations, and community leaders to create comprehensive strategies that not only respond to incidents of domestic violence but also work to prevent them from occurring in the first place.
The discussions led by Hon.Yishawu, Hon. Tobun, Hon.Ogundipe and Hon. Ajomale serve as a clarion call for action. By prioritizing education, reinforcing legal frameworks, and fostering community engagement, we can make significant strides toward eradicating domestic violence and promoting a culture of respect and safety.
In conclusion, the Lagos State House of Assembly's proactive stance on domestic and sexual violence is a significant step towards creating a more supportive and informed community. The proposed guidance and counseling units represent a forward-thinking approach to prevention and intervention, ultimately aiming to reduce the incidence of violence and support those affected.
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