Gender rights advocates have called for the utilization of the gender based violence laws in Lagos State, with the aim of eradicating every form of abuse and violence in the state.
Speaking during a policy dialogue organized by Safeguarding Against Violence and Exploitation of Women and Girls (SAVE), the stakeholders stress that there are numerous support systems that have been set up by the Lagos State Government to address gender based violence.
While speaking at the panel, Philomena Nneji, former Chairperson of the National Federation of Women Lawyers Association, (FIDA), Lagos State Chapter, explained that it is important that the sex offender register is made functional, to name and shame every perpetrator of sexual abuse.
To address issues of GBV on a general note, Nneji explained that “the way forward is to make sexual offender law very functional, prompt response, collective responsibilities and strategic partnership among stakeholders”.
Mrs. Foluke Ademokun, Executive Director, Ajoke Ayisat Afolabi Foundation emphasized the importance of community mobilization as a tool to prevent gender-based violence.
She added that there is a need for community mobilization to prevent gender-based violence and create awareness.
On her Part, Olabisi Ajayi-kayode Legal Practitioner and Executive Secretary, Cece Yara Foundation, appealed that victims of gender-based violence should not be victimized.
GBV cases can be reported to a toll free line – 0800033333 and victims would be provided with all the necessary support.