EME, LASG Launch Campaign Against Gender-Based Violence

A symbolic walk aimed at raising awareness and enlightening the public on ending violence against women and girls was recently held in the Alausa axis of Ikeja. The event, organized by the EME Foundation in collaboration with the Lagos State Government, is part of the ongoing '16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence'. The campaign seeks to engage residents directly, creating opportunities for dialogue and behavioral change to protect vulnerable groups in the society..

Mrs. Eniola Edun-Ogundana, Executive Director of the EME Foundation, praised the efforts of the Babajide Sanwo-Olu Administration in safeguarding the rights of women and girls. She highlighted that collaborative initiatives like this walk strengthen the collective fight against gender-based violence and serve as a platform to educate the public on the various forms of abuse women face, particularly in the digital space.

The Lagos State Government has taken significant steps to address gender-based violence through the creation of the Domestic and Sexual Violence Law and the Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA). The agency is mandated to protect survivors, maintain an offenders’ register, hold perpetrators accountable, and prevent future violence through a coordinated approach. This partnership with organizations like the EME Foundation is intended to expand outreach and reinforce the protection of women and girls, particularly in today’s digital age.

The advocacy walk began at Ikeja City Mall, proceeded through the State House of Assembly, and concluded at the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation in Alausa. Participants carried placards promoting behavioral change and engaged in awareness conversations with members of the public. These activities exemplify community engagement as a powerful tool to shift societal perceptions and encourage proactive protection of women and children.

Edun-Ogundana emphasized that the annual campaign, themed 'Unite to End Digital Violence', is a global call to action against all forms of violence targeting women and girls. She noted, "We are doing this advocacy to amplify awareness against digital violence, online bullying, cyberstalking, digital embarrassment, and technology-facilitated abuse, while promoting behavioral change to protect the female gender." The partnership between the Lagos State Government and voluntary groups like EME Foundation continues to strengthen the response of law enforcement and the justice system in addressing gender-based violence.